David’s Story: Finding Connection Again

When David was referred to CARE’s community support, life had become very quiet. He lived alone with no family nearby and was managing several long-term physical and mental health conditions. His days had little structure. Five months earlier, he had lost his dog, who had been his constant companion for many years. The grief was overwhelming. He told his support worker he couldn’t imagine having another pet because the loss had hurt so much.

Most of the time, David stayed at home. He spoke to friends online through gaming, but avoided in-person contact. He preferred to shop late at night so there would be fewer people around.

A few weeks after starting support, his worker mentioned an eight-week equine therapy course. It involved caring for and riding horses with the guidance of a counsellor. Knowing his love of animals, she offered to go with him for the first sessions. At the start, David kept his conversations short, but gradually he became more open, talking more both in the sessions and on the car journeys there. By week three, he was making small jokes in the car. One week he even brought homemade brownies as a thank-you to the counsellor, Angie.

Six weeks into his support, David asked if there were any small groups where he could meet people face to face. His worker found a local “Man Club” - a safe space where men meet to talk about mental health, depression, or difficult thoughts without judgement.

Not long after, David came across a photo of a dog on a local rescue centre’s website. He asked if they could visit. As they arrived, he saw the dog being walked near the entrance. “That’s my dog,” he said immediately. Half an hour later, David left with adoption papers signed and a lead in his hand. On the drive home, he spoke about plans for daily walks, training, and how he would introduce the dog to his home. It was the most hopeful and animated his worker had ever seen him.