I worked as a drug counsellor while struggling with addiction #addictionrecovery #cnainsider

Just months after becoming a new father, Gopal Mahey was sentenced to 8 years in prison and 7 strokes of the cane for drug offences. Reflecting on that period, he shared, “(The sentencing was) the most difficult week of my life because I could see the depression, not just my own, but of everyone around me.”

After his early release in 2022, Gopal returned home to his five-year-old son. When the boy asked why he had been away, Gopal said, "Daddy made a mistake. Daddy had to go to school and learn." His son replied, "I hope you don't go to school again," and burst into tears.

Today, Gopal uses his lived experience to counsel not just offenders in Changi Prison, but also families and children impacted by a loved one’s incarceration.

Catch Extraordinary People, where CNA shines a light on individuals championing underserved communities.

#cna #cnainsider #counselling #therapy #mentalhealth #support #fypsg #singapore #rehabilitation

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