We can all have hope!

"I want to inspire others with my story - I hope it will help those people who can't see any hope at the moment" ~ Student

A small story of hope from someone who benefited from a consumer-run group

"I am a person who has experienced the ups and downs of mental illness - every time I felt better, I became depressed again. This kept happening for many years.

But, some time ago, a nurse introduced me to a consumer-run group, which teaches art, music, drama and other interesting, classes. I was a part of the group for about a year, and it gave me back my confidence.

As a result, I decided to go back to university. At first I was studying at the Auckland University of Technology, but later carried on pursuing my degree at the University of Auckland.

Now, I have direction in my life. I believe as long as we work hard we will be able to create hope and not be defined by the experience of mental illness.

I want to inspire others with my story - I hope it will help those people who can't see any hope at the moment.

I believe we can all do it; take me as an example!"