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People with a lived experience of mental illness
- “As I never participated in such events at school, this was a unique and enjoyable experience. I felt like an ordinary person, unlucky enough to be suffering from a mental illness, yet still capable in other ways, even ‘sane’ enough to offer useful advice and caring support to others. I was touched that my fellow campers believed in me, taking for granted that I could do whatever was needed for the moment. I have not experienced the joy of being connected to others in so many, many years.”
- “I learnt to fully trust without fear or judgement. I felt stronger leaving, I learnt to have faith, and on the last day I was able to be roped on to the giant swing… I felt I achieved something that day, and having everyone cheer me on, I have never felt so good about myself.”
- “Honestly the happiest five days of my life.”
- “I had a great time at the camp. I felt welcome and as though I was just like everyone else. No ‘them’ and ‘us,’ which doesn’t always happen. It was also the most fun I have had for such a long time. I wish the social part could be there all the time.”
Students
- “Thank you for the opportunity to attend the Recovery Camp. I enjoyed it even more than I thought I would and I have learned so much. Any fear or doubt I had about mental health is gone as camp showed me just how caring and kind consumers can be. I’ve never met a more genuine bunch of people and was surprised at how quickly I felt at ease. I also felt supported by staff and it was reassuring to know you were there if I needed you.”
- “We get fed a whole load of information about mental health, but nothing beats hands on experience. I found I learnt many invaluable lessons from being surrounded by other researchers, students from different faculties, and consumers.”
- “I feel that the week away, working hand in hand with the consumers, gave me a better perspective on people living with a mental illness and how that would shape my practice in working with them. Not only that, but I feel I have become a more considerate, patient and understanding person – which for a week-long camp is a huge thing.”
- “I have learnt a lot from Recovery Camp. I feel capable of being a mental health nurse, I want to be a mental health nurse, and I will be a mental health nurse.”
Acknowledgement of Country
Recovery Camp acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.
Recovery Camp welcomes all people irrespective of ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity.
