When James Harris first arrived at St Bart’s in January last year, he carried the weight of a difficult past. Mental illness had taken hold—schizophrenia, psychosis, and depression clouded his thoughts. The world around him felt hostile; every conversation on TV or social media seemed like it was about him. The darkness became overwhelming, and with it came isolation.
“I just hibernated,” James recalls. “No exercise, no brain work—just stayed in my room, doing nothing. Sometimes, I’d sit in front of the TV with it turned off.”
Suicidal thoughts were a constant battle. Sleepless nights turned into a blur of nightmares. “I believe I’ve seen hell,” he says, reflecting on the torment his mind put him through.
For years, James moved between places, from his mother’s home to his sister’s, where he found the support he desperately needed. “I owe her my life,” he says. “If it wasn’t for her, I’d be dead, in prison, or on the streets.”
Eventually, James found his way to St Bart’s, a turning point in his life. At first, the transition was daunting. Living independently, after years of relying on others, felt unfamiliar. But soon, he discovered the support he needed to rebuild his life.
“The staff here are incredible,” James shares. “If we need help, they’re always there—whether it’s a game of chess, a walk, or just someone to talk to. We even have barbecues together. It’s like a family.”
Slowly, James started piecing himself back together. With a safe roof over his head and a network of support, he found the courage to envision a future beyond survival. “I’ve learned to love myself,” he says. “I never thought about that before.”
Today, James stands on the threshold of independence. He has applied for community housing and feels ready to take the next step on his own. “Looking back, from where I was to where I am now—I feel really good. I’m proud of myself.”
And as for the future? “At this stage,” James smiles, “I’d like to find a woman.”
James’ journey is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of a helping hand. At St Bart’s, stories like his remind us why we do what we do.
St Bart’s provides short to medium-term accommodation for adults with persistent mental health challenges who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. We provide this recovery-focused and trauma-informed service at our onsite supported Community Recovery Villages and Accommodation Units. These programs ensure that individuals like James receive the care and stability needed to work towards independence.
St Bart’s acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land that we live and work on, the Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation. We are privileged to work with, and alongside, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and encourage those who are emerging as leaders.
St Bart’s is committed to diversity and inclusion in all its forms. We welcome and support the health and wellbeing of all people, regardless of background, age, ethnicity, religion and gender identity.