Finding Healing & Community in Mooloolaba
Paul, a beloved figure in our Mooloolaba community, shares his journey of healing and reveals how his cherished companion, Lola with her chocolate-colored fur, became his lifeline.
Embarking on a new chapter, Paul, together with his wife and their young daughter Eva, left the U.K. behind and settled in Australia 15 years ago. As time passed, their family grew with the arrival of their second daughter.
Three years ago, a persuasive trio consisting of Joanna, Eva (now 18), and Liv (now 14) managed to convince Paul that their family was incomplete without a furry companion. Despite initial reservations stemming from his shift work and worries about increased noise levels at home, Paul eventually embraced the idea. Thus, Lola, a beautiful chocolate-coloured Australian Cobberdog, swiftly became an indispensable presence in their lives.
an unexpected turn
Two years ago, Paul's life took an unexpected turn. As an ICU nurse, he had dedicated over two decades to his demanding profession. However, the toll of his work had caught up with him, and he was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety. Burnt out and sinking into a dark place, Paul realised he needed to take an extended leave from his job.
During this challenging period, Lola became Paul's lifeline. Each day, Lola's need for regular walks, along with his own commitment to healing, compelled him to get out of bed and leave the house. This simple routine provided structure and purpose to his days. Lola's unwavering presence became a source of comfort and support, helping Paul on his journey towards healing and recovery. Understanding the significance of Paul's recovery journey, his family were supportive of his frequent absences from home. Paul’s wife has now become a constant companion on many of his walks. As Paul's health continues to improve, he is now able to devote more quality time to his family.
finding solace
During walks with Lola, along the picturesque Mooloolaba beachfront, Paul's company often opened up opportunities for meaningful connection.
Despite initially withdrawing due to his mental health struggles, Paul found solace in friendly and warm interactions with fellow dog owners and beachgoers. These encounters allowed him to engage in conversations, both light-hearted and deeper and discover that many others were also fighting their own battles.
Paul found a connection with others through Lola's charm and their shared love for dogs. Casual beachfront chats turned into meaningful coffee conversations, providing healing for both.
Paul's career and personal journey with mental health taught him the importance of open conversations and breaking down the stigma surrounding these issues. Though initially hesitant to share his struggles, Paul eventually realised the relief it brought to others when he spoke openly about his experiences.
During his walks with Lola in Mooloolaba, Paul discovered the healing power of conversation and the importance of breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health. Walking with Lola quickly became an essential part of Paul's daily routine, serving as a vital component in his journey toward recovery. Determined to prioritise his overall well-being, both physically and mentally, he made a commitment to walk twice a day, regardless of the weather conditions. This consistent exercise routine, coupled with the professional guidance and support he received from his GP and psychologist, played a significant role in his healing process.
Conversations about mental health are crucial in communities. Such connections are powerful, and discussing struggles can be healing, albeit challenging at first. Paul hopes to reduce the stigma associated with mental health by sharing his story and encouraging others to open up. Seeking help may be difficult, but in a casual setting like walking your dog, it becomes easier to share and seek support.
Mooloolaba, with its charming small town and vibrant community, provided the perfect backdrop for Paul's journey. The daily interactions with familiar faces, the shared love for the beach, and the absence of prejudices allowed Paul to develop meaningful connections. The support and acceptance from the community reinforced his belief that mental health should be openly discussed and destigmatised. Stigmatisation of mental health issues can have many detrimental effects on individuals, such as increased stress, decreased self-esteem along with a reluctance to seek help.
Paul's story exemplifies the transformative power of dogs and the sense of community found in unexpected places. Lola became Paul's lifeline during his struggle with severe depression and anxiety, giving him motivation to get out of bed and connect with others. During his walks with Lola in Mooloolaba, Paul discovered the healing power of conversation and the importance of breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health. His journey is an inspiration for others to seek support, prioritise self-care, and find solace in the company of a faithful companion.
