Page 159 - ReAwaken Ebook 1st Ed

The simplicity of communication allowing a family dynamic to flow and to be with the
person in distress, It was safe, respectful and incredibly effective. “That’s what I want to
do” I thought to myself as I watched intently. And so that caused me to follow a study

path of Peer Support. And I am forever grateful.

I spent free time in the art space, painting, drawing, playing with different mediums and

exploring expression as a way of processing the things that were coming up for me. It was
an essential element of the conference, as it provided an outlet for people and a place to

relax and create. I did not partake in the ‘Meaning Manual’ project, mainly because I
didn’t have an official diagnosis and could not creatively connect with the process. I did
however create an art piece for the ‘Turning Point’ art project. A turning point in my life

was finding the ‘Living beyond a shadow of Abuse’ group. And so my art piece
symbolically represented that.

The rally on the steps of Parliament House and presentation of the Manifesto signified to
closing of the week. The reason we had all come together. We wanted change in the

Mental Health system. “Love not drugs” “connection = healing” “I am not my diagnoses”
a few among many of the placards displayed proudly. The singing of John Lennon’s ‘Give
peace a chance’ united us, the chanting, the smiles, the people stopping to talk to us.

Some in tears as they felt exactly the same emotions that we felt. Now connected by an
understanding. It was incredibly powerful being a part of something so great.

The theme of the four days was connection, compassion and meaningful action. And the
theme rang true, you could see it everywhere you looked. People talking to people, heart
connections. As it should be every day, a bliss bubble. A utopian experience. A huge

thank you to Stephanie and Matt for making me feel welcome and the amazing efforts
from you both and the rest of the team that made it all happen. I look forward to being a

part of Reawaken 2.0.

Suki is a mental health peer support student, a volunteer with the Humane Clinic and is
currently working as a support worker. Suki’s own lived experience deeply informs her
work and study. She has an interest in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy and is

passionate about healing in relation to trauma and abuse.

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