Hope lives in connection 
 

Peta-Anne is a Non-Binary, Queer Intersectional Feminist, a community activist and creative, and a disabled and AuDHD survivor and advocate. 

It was last year that they were facing extreme burnout. At the time they were diagnosed with ADHD but not yet autism. It was a frightening time for Peta-Anne and their family, as they went into full body dissociation – in line with autism burnout. 

“I was disassociating, and I kept saying over and over that ‘my brain’s broken’ and ‘I can’t do this anymore’.” 

Recognising the seriousness of the situation, Peta-Anne’s husband contacted Lifeline and called a trusted friend over – someone trained in mental health and with lived experience of burnout. They reminded Peta-Anne that they were not alone and that help was possible. This led to a visit to the Urgent Mental Health Care Centre where they were recommended to seek an autism diagnosis. 

In those early days, what helped most was the presence of a supportive partner, and the opportunity to speak to a queer peer worker. 

“I was seen by a disabled, queer, neurodivergent person. It felt like I was very seen and that is so important for us marginalised communities to feel like we’re safe.”  

Talking with others was an important part of Peta-Anne’s journey, first with their husband and close friend, and then finding that connection with community. 

“Connecting to community is one of the most important strategies of recovery. It establishes connection and takes away that feeling of loneliness.” 

Peta-Anne is now training to work in peer support, a role they hadn’t known existed before their experience. It's a path that has given them a purpose and renewed sense of direction.  

“It certainly allowed me to start seeing the help I needed and the support I needed, but it also allowed me to think there is something else I can do.” 

For Peta-Anne, starting the chat means the ability to show compassion to one another, seeing people for who they are, and checking in with those around us.  

“Part of the human experience is learning to be empathetic and compassionate. It can sometimes be hard in this fast-paced world, but it’s very important to check in with those around us.” 

To anyone unsure how to ask if someone is okay, or if they are thinking about suicide, Peta-Anne encourages a direct but gentle approach. Acknowledging what you’ve noticed and creating emotional safety. 

“It’s about reassuring them that they’re okay and they are safe with you.” 

They remind us that supporting someone means taking their concerns seriously but also ensuring you have the support around you so that you can show up and help that person. 

Peta-Anne is sharing their story for the ones who feel they can’t.  

Suicidal thoughts can feel overwhelming, but they don't define your future. There is help, there is hope and there is a community ready to walk beside you. To those who are walking through pain or uncertainty, Peta-Anne offers this message:  

“Sometimes you don’t know what help is around you.”  

“Talking to someone you trust is important. Find the person you trust the most.” 

Start the Chat. Make a Difference