Video transcript

I think it is that thing about connecting with people and feeling like I could make a difference for people who are having a lot of difficulty.

The connection, it's all about the relationships that you form, with the consumer, with families, carers, with other organisations, other professionals as well and even at a team level the relationships you form with your colleagues.

I've always been interested in people's life experiences and their life stories and to me that's a central part of our work in mental health. We have to really listen to and truly understand each individual's experience.

The engagement with families to bring families together to improve their relationships is a really important part of what we do in metal health.

I think we undervalue the contribution you can make to someone's live in the mental health service system. If you make a difference to one person then you have made a difference, that’s what keeps me coming back.

Where things are now in mental health is we are shifting towards an approach that is what's called 'recovery based' and more client centred and involves the client more and gives them a greater sense of dignity and respect.

So small changes in a consumers or family member's life can be really powerful, positive feedback because understanding their experience and their story to date, you can really appreciate that a small change can make a huge difference to that individual.

You do leave each day feeling that you've managed to make a real positive difference in someone's life. Even if it’s not a huge difference, it's a difference.

The consumers and carers that I've worked with over the years have constantly reinforced that this was the right career for me and that making the decision to work in mental health was the right one.

It's the smiles, it the when they've had a success moment and everyone is feeling good, they are the moments you look for and you enjoy.