Lucy joined PANDA in May 2021 and has contributed 242 hours to the Peer Support team in that time.
Tell us about yourself
Hi my name is Lucy, I am a single mother of 2 children who are 7 and 9. I work part-time doing software project management and am into rock climbing, trail running, hiking and camping. I LOVE getting to share these activities with my sons and friends.
Why did you choose to volunteer with PANDA?
I experienced post-natal depression and anxiety after the birth of my first child and then later acute anxiety and some psychosis after the birth of my second. These experiences were very intense at the time and had a huge impact on my family, despite having supports around us. I called PANDA during an episode when I was experiencing intrusive thoughts. It was incredibly powerful, grounding and supportive to have someone answer my call and help me while I was in that state.
Years later I heard about PANDA’s volunteer program and I really wanted to join the peer support program with the idea that I might be able to help another person experiencing something similar to what I had during those difficult times.
What has been the best thing that’s happened at PANDA since you joined as a Peer Support Volunteer?
Hearing callers progress with their own mental health journey, it’s the best getting to celebrate their wins together.
On a personal level, joining PANDA has had the side benefit of keeping me very focussed on working on my family’s mental health.
What is your favourite activity to do with your family?
Definitely rock climbing; I love seeing my sons feel a sense of achievement when they meet a goal or finish a hard climb!
Finally, what is your favourite family holiday destination?
Lake Tabourie, NSW. Where the bush and beach meet
