Hi and a bit about me!!

[GavH]

Hi. I'm Gav (Gavin) and I have suffered from depression in the past, probably more than I recognised until being forced to take some time off work.

I am interested in helping people with mental health and I have spoken about my mental health journey on a number of occasions, helped by my experience in Toastmasters (communication & leadership education organisation). The first time was in front of work colleagues and senior who did not know what I was going to say and my legs were shaking/ Literally shaking so I was glad that I could hide them behind a lectern. Since then I have spoken at numerous other events and the feedback that I have received has been positive. a number of people have approached me about there own struggles and I have been able to help them, either by just listening or providing directions to help.

I did join Blue Voices awhile ago but have been putting off volunteering to help, though this something that I enjoy doing.

Managing my depression with some medication but mainly exercise, yoga, meditation and enjoying the outdoors. Being positive and avoiding negativity helps.

I'm hoping that I will be able to find some opportunities to volunteer to assist and help others through Blue Voices, and to learn and grow through others experiences.

[Croix]

Dear Gavin

It is great to be able to put one's experiences to good use and help others. It turns things around and makes a handicap into a very real advantage.

I'm glad you joined Blue Voices, whch is a most important section of Beyond Blue, dealing as it does in information gathering and dissemination. However should you fee that speaking is an avenue you would like to pursue then I'd suggest you have a talk to the folks in the Speakers and Ambassadors Bureau who provide training and opportunities to speak.

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-involved/our-speakers-bureau

For most other forms of volunteering (other than speaking) I'd suggest having a look at

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-involved/volunteer-with-us

(Pardon me if you have already done these.)

Even without the above I'm sure you will find plenty to do with Blue Voices

Croix

[GavH]

Croix,

Thanks for the tips. I had found the volunteering section but not the Speakers Bureau.

Gav

[GavH]

Thanks Croix.

[quirkywords]

Hello Gav

I found toastmasters very helpful too. I have given talks for BB and the feedback you get from the community ir really good. You do a raining course which is worthwhile. I am not sure how they are affected by covid.

it is great you are wanting to volunteer.

All the best.