Chris Rhyss
It wasn't until 2018 I was effectively diagnosed with Complex PTSD. It came about because I had a panic attack.
Cameron
'I thought that having schizophrenia meant that my brain was schizophrenic, but it’s not as cumbersome as that.'
Ali
I didn’t want to feel like I was different. It took a long time to come around to the idea that what I was feeling wasn’t normal.
Declan
I thought what I was going through went on in everyone’s life; that everyone felt this kind of day-to-day sadness.
Hannah
'It’s a scary illness, but it doesn’t mean the people who have it are scary. We’re human, just like everyone else.'
Nicole
‘I see my experience with depression and anxiety as a lesson learned. I want to use it to help others that are struggling.’
Dov
'Mental health issues symptoms are not always visible like a broken arm or physical ailment. You can’t see someone’s internal struggles.'
Matt
'I look forward to a day when people with mental health issues will be accepted for who they are and won’t be judged.'
Jo
'A lot of people think carers are saints, not humans. But they are real people who do suffer from isolation, stress and burnout.'
Denielle
'I don’t think people understand how debilitating a mental health issues can be – it takes over your whole life.'
Stephanie
'I’ve felt alienated at times. People can’t see mental health issues so they can’t sympathise with it.'
James
‘Once I got out of that place, there was no way I'd ever touch drugs again. I didn’t want to destroy my whole life.'
Tania
'I love all animals, I particularly love dogs. Whenever I am with Kelsey and out walking, I focus on her rather than myself.'
Sandy
‘Schizophrenia is a horrible housemate. You have to learn to understand its moods and the way they affect you . . .'
Kylie
‘Young carers often slip under the radar. Responsibilities at home can affect them, yet this isn't recognised.’
Evan
‘Self-advocacy is about learning to stand up for yourself . . . It's building your confidence and self-esteem.’
Terese
'Like everyone, it's important for me to find a life/work balance, because I have bipolar I try not to overload myself.'
Jock
‘I would like to speak in public more often. I want to help people, because if I can change my life around, anybody can.’
SANE Peer Ambassadors
Share your experience of complex mental health issues and help reduce stigma by becomming a Peer Ambassador.
Facts & guides
Our factsheets & guides provide easy-to-read information on complex mental health issues for everyone. Have a look - you can browse, download or send them on to someone who needs them.