Lived Experience Profile Series

In September of 2021, 6 courageous Kiwis shared their lived experiences with Authentic Storytelling for
Mental Health Awareness Week 2021. These are their stories.**

Meet Gracie*

Gracie (26, Christchurch) shares her experience of survival through an unwanted pregnancy, a sexual assault and an abusive relationship.

Meet Chris*

Chris (28, Napier) talks about navigating love, ambition and masculinity in this self-discovery journey of learning to ask for help, overcoming feelings of failure and becoming the man he wants to be.

Meet Garry*

Garry (39, Dunedin) discusses his daughter’s traumatic premature birth and how he’s coping with anxiety in the unpredictable and high-pressure events industry.

Meet Hilary*

Hilary (75, Wellington) shares her experience of grief, isolation and renewed identity following the death of her husband, and the complexities of aging in a world that doesn’t see older people - in particular, women.

Meet Nina*

Nina (42, New Plymouth) talks about breaking the inter-generational cycle of trauma and abuse, and managing traumatic stress when counselling is off the table.

Meet James*

James (53, Auckland) tells his story of nearly 3 decades of narcotic use and addiction, his journey to recovery and how he’s nurturing his inner child during a new chapter of marriage and fatherhood.

* Some identifying details in this series have been changed to protect the identity of the participants.

**The stories in this series reflect the lived experiences of the participants only, and are not intended to be used as a reference for diagnosis or treatment of any condition. If you are experiencing mental distress, please find emergency resources through Mental Health Foundation, contact Lifeline or a reach out to a medical professional in your local area.