It’s been very quiet around here lately, because it’s been mad in my life. I’m very tuckered out at the moment. I’ve been working hard at Aceda, caring for my very unwell girlfriend (who’s currently in hospital) and trying to keep my own head above water. I’ve not had a lot of sleep this week!

I’m frustrated to not be getting time to write this blog, it’s an important part of my own reflection on the day and my life and especially my work in mental health. I’m hoping to put some time into more articles next year, particularly thoughts and ideas about eating disorders as I’ve been working so much in that area lately.

This week we got the very sad news that Aceda was unsuccessful in applying for a grant for next year. It’s been frantic at the office as we’ve all scrambled to refer clients to other services. For me especially it’s been busy, Christmas is often a particularly tough time for people with issues around food and I’ve been utterly swamped by people desperate for support and referrals. It’s heartbreaking to be closing our doors at this time and I’ve put in some extra hours to try and make sure people are left with a comprehensive set of referrals, links, and other support options. (if you would like these please email me at sarah@di.org.au) This role has been challenging but I’m very glad to have taken it up. I’m proud of the service and resources I’ve been involved in here. I’ve spent time with some truly amazing and courageous clients for whom I have deep respect. I’ve learned a tremendous amount alongside them and my colleagues. I’m fired with passion about this terribly neglected area of mental health, and furiously angry at the appalling lack of resources and options for people here in SA! It’s been a fantastic opportunity and I’m looking forward to a good break and then using these experiences to inform my peer work in 2013. Mental health can be exhausting and at times infuriating, or distressing, but it is also deeply rewarding, something that moves and fires me. People deserve better and I’m thrilled to be part of a huge movement towards respect, recovery, community, and equality in mental health services. You’re not getting rid of me yet. 😉