Creative expression is at the very core of me and plays a big part in my recovery and wellbeing. I share elements of my lived experience in constructive ways through what I love to do which helps others to understand me and feel inspired on their own journey.
My introduction to the mental health system wasn’t the best experience. I had consulted a psychologist about some severe issues with insomnia and found myself admitted to a ward for three months without leave!.
The system is improving and I am grateful to have experienced ‘the Flourish Australia difference’ from the first time they visited me in hospital. They take a more person-led approach and our journey together began with mapping out my life goals.
At the time, this included getting a place of my own, becoming more independent, studying, making new friends, and getting back into the workforce. It’s rewarding to now say I’ve achieved all of this for myself with the support and encouragement of my Peer Workers.
The staff have their own lived experience so they really get what I’m going through.
The group activities they offer at their Hunter Street drop-in centre are great and I felt inspired to get creative with their art sessions. It’s not about being ‘good’ at art or measuring my work against that of others, it’s an outlet for self-expression in a way that others can relate to.
I love to paint big watercolours and have loads of plaster moulds for making marionettes that stand about a metre tall.
Music is another creative outlet. I compose my own piano pieces and play the flute and a very nice violin that I salvaged from the trash! Rehearsing with the members’ band gives me a sense of belonging.
My primary motivator is theatre. As a professional actor, I’ve performed in plays, musicals and Fox Studios productions, as a swing actor. I ran a flea circus in London, I’ve entertained the Flourish Australia team with my magic tricks, and recently landed a movie role in Sydney.
To keep my mind agile, I love to learn about sciences such as biochemistry and quantum mechanics. Though I’m no expert, it gives me helpful perspectives on my life experiences through a scientific lens. I found it fascinating to study the Titanic in detail for almost a year!
Flourish Australia help you to move beyond ‘the tyranny of low expectations’ that can leave people experiencing mental health issues feeling defeated about their employment prospects. They restored my hope for going after the career I want.
The NDIS has been a great development, giving me greater freedom to select services to suit my changing needs. I no longer seek intensive support, life is really good and I maintain that with group based activities and connections.
At some point I’d like to check out their other sites, like Buckhouse in Surry Hills. I enjoy having a chat with the team members and other people accessing services.
Everyone wants a ‘normal’ life which I believe it comes down to being authentically ourselves. You can never be certain how life will unfold, there’s no guidebook but the journey of a thousand kilometres takes shape, one step at a time!
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