WE'RE BASICALLY THE SAME PERSON
Having a friendship with someone that has their own experiences with and understands the complexities of having a parent with mental health difficulties, really helped me normalise, process and accept my own emotions. I came to realise that my experiences may have been unique but my feelings were not. I could express myself without fear of judgement or misunderstanding. In my most vulnerable and emotionally raw moments, she met me with "me too."
Satellite Statement- The threads of connection to other people are at the centre of how we experience life, in all its ups and down. The support, nourishment, love, strength we can have through those connections especially in the down times, perhaps when mental illness flares up, are very often the threads that sustain us. We honour connection.
Listening to the stories of others like these can sometimes remind you of parts of your own life that were or are sad or difficult. Life might feel difficult right now. If reading or watching anything on this site has raised any issues or feelings for you, we encourage you to reach out to a family member or friend to talk to, or to call one of the free 24 hour support lines listed below.
Lifeline – 13 11 14 is a national charity providing all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention service.
Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 call any time of the day or night – select from the voice menu or simply hold on the line to talk with a trained mental health professional.
Kids Helpline | Phone Counselling Service - 1800 55 1800