The SANE Blog

Peer Support played a key role in the early stages of my mental health recovery in a couple of ways. I was diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) at the age of 21, however, I never spoke to my family and friends about my symptoms. Apart from my psychiatrist, I didn’t talk about my OCD to anybody.

At the age of 29, I became increasingly depressed and was diagnosed with co-morbid Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), leading to a long period out of the workforce.

It was at this time I began connecting with others living with OCD via online forums and attending an in-person support group each fortnight. I also became part of the SANE Peer Ambassador program. Meeting people who lived with OCD and understood was not only very comforting, but it also validated my experiences.

Talking about my OCD with my peers gave me the confidence to discuss symptoms with my parents, friendship group and employer. This was the key step that helped my depression lift, and eventually I got back to work.

Peer support still plays a big part in helping to manage my OCD. It often works to complement/enhance ongoing professional treatment.

SANE supports Tuesday’s release from the National Suicide Prevention Office (NSPO) draft Advice on the National Suicide Prevention Strategy which proposes a fundamental change in the way we think and act on suicide prevention, highlighting the emphasis on accessible digital interventions, peer support and reduction in stigma.

For Jenny, managing mental health has been a journey marked by resilience, self-discovery, and the power of a strong support network. As we reflect on Women's Health Week, Jenny’s story offers valuable lessons on how building and nurturing connections can empower women to thrive despite the challenges they face.

As we mark Women’s Health Week, Lisa’s journey reminds us of the profound impact a strong support network can have on mental health. Lisa, a mother, advocate, and fierce supporter of mental health awareness, has faced immense challenges, yet she continues to thrive through the power of connection and community. 

Homelessness can happen to anyone, and for dean, it was a journey that tested his resilience and strength.

I was proud to represent the SANE community at a special roundtable held at Parliament House yesterday to share our thoughts on the challenges currently experienced by individuals and carers with complex mental health needs.

June 27 is PTSD Awareness Day, a day to acknowledge a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Despite its prevalence, PTSD is often misunderstood, and many who suffer from it do so in silence. This article details several key aspects of PTSD, aiming to increase understanding and support for those affected.

Global Wellness Day in June each year serves as a reminder of the importance of overall wellbeing. While physical health often takes the spotlight, mental health advocacy needs equal attention because it encourages individuals to recognise the value of mental wellbeing, understand an array of mental health issues, and seek help when needed. This post delves into why mental health awareness is vital and how you can protect your own mental health. 

As we reach the end of Schizophrenia Awareness Week, we’re sharing the inspiring story of Sandra and Kym, a devoted couple whose life journey together has been shaped by Kym 's diagnosis of schizophrenia. Their story is one of resilience, love, and unwavering commitment to understanding and supporting each other through every challenge and triumph.

Schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, there are still misconceptions around the condition. In honour of World Schizophrenia Awareness Day on May 24th, this post aims to contribute to the de-stigmatisation of this condition by explaining the symptoms, signs to watch for, common myths, and pathways for treatment and support.