Magdalena’s story

Magdalena had a stable job and home, but struggles with her mental health left her facing homelessness. St Mungo’s is helping her to regain her independence at one of their women-only mental health services.

“St Mungo’s gave me a chance to turn my life around.

Before I arrived here, I was suicidal. On the outside, it seemed like I was doing well – I was working in hospitality and had been offered a promotion to General Manager. But inside, I was feeling really bad, and soon enough, I just broke down.

After spending a week in hospital, it was clear that I needed extra support. I couldn’t look after myself, and it wasn’t realistic to stay in the accommodation I shared with my landlord. I needed a safe space to get back on my feet.

That’s when the council introduced me to St Mungo’s. They showed me around one of their women-only mental health services, and as soon as I walked in and met the staff, I knew this was the place for me.

The service I’m staying at is designed especially to help women move on from hospital and back into the wider community. Every resident has their own issues, but the staff work so hard to make sure they’re looked after. When I first arrived, they helped me take my medication regularly, and introduced me to lots of different activities to keep my mind occupied. We do all sorts – from art class, to meditation, to women’s group, where we discuss the issues affecting the women here.

I’ve been staying here for almost two years now, and a lot’s changed in that time. Through art class, I’ve discovered my talent for painting, and St Mungo’s has been a huge encouragement. They’ve provided me with paint supplies when I’ve had no money, and proudly displayed my paintings in their hostels. My keyworker even helped me to get my artwork featured in St Mungo’s client magazine, Homeless Diamonds. It’s given me a great sense of purpose and fulfilment.

I’ve also got a little rescue dog named Goldie. Having him makes such a difference – he motivates me to go out, to prepare food, and to play with him. The other residents love him too – he’s very spoilt!

In the past, I put my problems in the drawer and locked it – but that drawer quickly sprung open. With help from St Mungo’s, I’ve recently started Cognitive Behaviour Therapy – a type of talking therapy that helps you to identify negative patterns and break your problems into smaller, manageable parts. I want to be independent again, and I’ve decided I’m going to fight for myself.

I feel safe here, but not everyone is as lucky as me. Hundreds more women are in desperate need of specialist support to deal with their trauma and regain independence.”

Your donation could help provide a safe space for more women like Magdalena. With your support, we could open more women-only services and change the future for women experiencing homelessness. Donate here and help us to make a difference.