Carer’s Queensland Toowoomba participant Waseem Khan opens up about how NDIS support changed his life

Six years after arriving on Aussie soil in search of better opportunities, Waseem’s life took a devastating turn as his mental health began to deteriorate and he received a shocking diagnosis. Here’s his inspiring story and how his life changed for the better.

Kind, courteous, gentle, a cricket fan and music lover are just some of the ways to describe Waseem Khan who also lives with schizophrenia and a physical disability.

Originally from Pakistan, Mr Khan immigrated to Australia in the 90s, in search for better opportunities, but just six years after arriving on Aussie soil, his life took a devastating turn when his mental health began to deteriorate.

Toowoomba's Waseem Khan has opened up about his Schizophrenia diagnosis and how the NDIS has changed his life. Picture: Rhylea Millar

Schizophrenia is a lifelong mental illness which causes an individual to experience an altered version of reality and may result in delusions and hallucinations, but can be supported with therapy and medication.

Unlike his shoulder and back injuries, Mr Khan struggled to explain the inner turmoil he was experiencing as others did not understand.

“People thought I looked OK so I must have been feeling good inside,” he said.

“But I was really struggling – I was really sick.”

Toowoomba's Waseem Khan has opened up about his Schizophrenia diagnosis and how the NDIS has changed his life. Picture: Rhylea Millar

A clerical worker at the time, Mr Khan had to leave his job after receiving his diagnosis and became recluse, rarely leaving his home, until he was approved for the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

With the assistance of Carer’s Queensland, Mr Khan’s life has completely changed, with the NDIS funding a psychologist, physiotherapist and support worker, helping the now 56-year-old to achieve independence, form friendships and participate in social activities.

“I didn’t know anyone here so my life was quite terrible because I was very isolated and lonely,” he said.

“The support I’m now receiving has changed my life and I feel like I’m not alone now.

“I came to Australia for a better life and it’s home now.”

Toowoomba's Waseem Khan has opened up about his Schizophrenia diagnosis and how the NDIS has changed his life. Picture: Rhylea Millar

In addition to cheering on the Pakistan national cricket team, Mr Khan also collects CDs with Fleetwood Mac, Elton John, the Bee Gees and Icehouse among his favourite musicians.

“Whenever I start to hear noises or get sick, I listen to my CDs and it instantly calms me down – it’s part of my therapy,” he said.