Sue

I used to think that depression was my destiny. Even though my journey was long and diffcult, my life turned a corner. After meeting other young adults who struggled with their mental health, I was able to see that recovery is possible. Without my experiences, I would not be the courageous person I am today. My passion, dedication, and strong work ethic, have influenced my career in human services. I want to be a role model for other young adults. Today, I try yo educate young adults by appling the advocacy skills I have learned, to assist them in creating am meaningful life.

Owen

I find being a Peer Mentor is very fulfilling because I use my life experience as a tool to help people. My illness does not define me. Instead, I define myself by the friends I have, my job and my interests. These include meditation, martial arts, reading, languages and cooking. It is hard to make positive growth when you have a mental illness, but the more you can overcome, the more you can appreciate how you got to where you are now. Everyone in the system should be made aware that they are a good person deserving of a fulilling life. My message to any young people suffering with a mental illness would be this: don't lose hope! It gets so much better.

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