1 Jan 2020 DRAFT

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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