Healing is possible, hope is real, and things can change
 

Jenn’s journey with mental health challenges began early in her life. Diagnosed with depression and anxiety at just 11 years old, she faced challenges such as struggling with body image, struggles in maintaining friendships and childhood trauma. Growing up she had a constant fear of burdening others with how she felt. 

“I became really good at hiding how I felt, always smiling, cracking jokes and deflecting,” she says.  

On the outside it seemed like she was coping. Inside she felt completely lost. 

 In her early 20’s she reached one of her darkest moments in her life. With no close friends to lean on, financial distress and a relationship breakdown, she made an attempt to end her life. 
Jenn was fortunate enough to have the support of her mum growing up and at her lowest point, she reached out to her as a last hope. That conversation, she says, was a turning point in her life. 

“She didn’t try to fix everything, she simply just wanted to be there and listen.” 

With her mum’s encouragement and support, Jenn connected with Talk Out Loud, a suicide prevention network in Northeastern Adelaide, which became a stepping stone to her healing journey. 

“I saw other people just like me, uncertain and hurting but taking the steps towards recovery.” 

Through a local psychologist she was also diagnosed with borderline personality disorder which helped her understand herself more.  

“This really opened my eyes to myself and my habits. I was then given the tools to help me.” 

From being a participant at Talk Out Loud, she then became a volunteer where she was able to mentor and speak publicly about her journey and recovery in the hopes her story could be a beacon of hope for others.  

“Advocacy gives me a purpose – a way to turn my pain into something meaningful and be part of a community that truly gets it but also wants to make a change.” 

“I want people to know that that despite mental health challenges you can find hope and thrive and experience great things in life.”  

These days, Jenn feels positive about her future.  

The support of her partner, family and Talk Out Loud have been the backbone in her recovery.  

“Recently painting and meditation has been a great outlet for me. But also connecting with my mum and partner to have a chat really helps. To this day I am still finding new ways to improve my wellbeing.” 

“My partner of 6 years is still learning new things too about my mental health and how he can support me.  I am incredibly grateful to have found a partner who is open to learning and supporting me.” 

“Eight years ago, I had no idea where my life was going, and I couldn’t imagine a future. Today, I still don’t have it all figured out, but I want to be here. I want to explore the world, keep learning, and create a life filled with meaning.”  

Jenn’s message is simple but powerful.  

“Your presence matters. To those who are struggling: you are not broken, you are not weak, you are human.”  

She knows it can feel impossible – but even the smallest step forward can shift everything. And to the supporters, she reminds them: 

“You don’t need the perfect words, you don’t need to fix it, what matters is that you keep showing up, that you ask how they are and mean it.” 

“Because that simple question can be incredibly impactful. Sometimes, it’s enough to remind someone that they’re worth caring about.” 

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