Lived experience can be one of the most powerful tools in mental health care, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) (RFDS) is expanding support for young people with the introduction of two new peer worker roles at headspace Cairns.
Drawing on their own experiences of mental health challenges, recovery and navigating support services, peer workers provide encouragement, advocacy and connection to others on a similar journey.
headspace Cairns Manager Helen Isenhour said this emerging role has seen several benefits, including increased hope, reduced isolation and greater service responsiveness.
"We currently have our peer workers' stories displayed in the waiting room so that young people can read about them," Helen said.
"If they're interested, they can meet with a peer worker who can share their story, strategies that helped them and offer support from a lived experience perspective.
“We’re very excited to bring this additional layer of support to young people who are accessing the service.”
For Levi, becoming a peer worker at headspace Cairns is a full-circle moment.
A former headspace Cairns client himself, he now uses his own experiences to support other young people as they navigate their mental health and wellbeing.
"Sometimes people simply need someone to listen to and give them the space to talk about what's going on," Levi said.
"Being able to support young people through their journey and be the person I wish I'd had when I was struggling is what makes this role so meaningful."
Fellow peer worker, Boadicea, has worked in lived experience roles before and immediately recognised the value this could bring to young people living in Far North Queensland.
She believes peer workers fill an important gap for those who may not be looking for a clinical approach but still want support from someone who understands what they're going through.
"We can say, 'I get it. I've been through that too. Let's work through it together,'" Boadicea said.
To celebrate headspace Day, the team will host a community barbecue on the Cairns Esplanade, giving young people the chance to connect with the headspace Cairns team in a relaxed setting.
It reflects this year's theme of do nothing* for mental health and wellbeing, recognising that sometimes the most meaningful support starts with slowing down, sharing a conversation, and knowing you're not alone.
headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation is funded by the Australian Government. The Lead Agency of headspace Cairns is the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section), and the funding is administered by the North Queensland Primary Health Network.
