Leena's Story: Connect Program

Leena is a central Asian female in her late 30s. She is married, has two children and has been living with her husband and his parents in Melbourne for almost 20 years. Leena is employed and avoids interaction with her ethnic community.  

She had sponsored several extended family members to come to Australia from overseas, which cost her a great deal of money. After their arrival, they began having some relationship issues often resulting in arguments. A family violence incident occurred whereby Leena’s window was smashed, resulting in Leena receiving minor cuts and needing to be taken to hospital.  

Leena was very emotional and sad when she shared her feelings and thoughts about the stressful events. She stated that police were informed and attended due to the family violence incident. Leena discussed the legal aspects of the intervention order, which was taken out by the police. Leena stated that she was not the same person after the incident and was struggling with daily routines, forgetting things. She reported feeling guilty for bringing her extended family members to Australia and stated that she no longer felt safe in her own home.  

The Peer Support Worker (PSW) provided confidential space and emotional support, completing a risk assessment and safety plan with Leena through consultation with Family Life’s specialist family violence practitioners. Leena was also advised of the suite of family violence support services offered by Family Life. The PSW provided the information/contact details of the Victoria Legal Aid and Monash Legal Aid Services and encouraged Leena to access the services for further legal support.  

The PSW spoke with Leena about what stress and anxiety looks like and the importance of stress management techniques. Leena and the PSW focused on deep breathing exercises and positive thinking and Leena was encouraged to see her GP to discuss a Mental Health Care Plan. In addition, the PSW spoke with Leena about the steps to access a psychologist throughout referral to the Primary Health Network if required. Leena advised the PSW that she was grateful that in the Connect program she was able to speak in her native language and with someone who understands the culture. Leena was thankful for all of the Peer Support Worker’s support and stated that she will encourage her parents and husband to access the program too and possibly obtain a referral to Family Life’s family and relationship counselling services for further support.