Elias’ Story

Elias - volunteer & circles of resilience member

“Volunteering with Resilience Collective has allowed me to get reacquainted with the concept of being present not only for myself, but alongside my peers as well.”

Tell us more about what made you step forward to volunteer with Resilience Collective?

I found the Circles of Resilience (CR) experience memorable and vitalising after deciding to join it. I felt some form of camaraderie and communal feeling about each other even though I have only met my fellow peer support group members for a few times. It felt safe, familiar, and like home, and I wanted to be a part of it!

What are your most memorable moments while volunteering with Resilience Collective?

One moment that profoundly impacted me was the Human Library Experience event. I never though that my lived experience would be so powerful and relatable. That changed my perspective and certainly my own narrative of my mental health condition. I used to think that my lived experiences were shameful and wrong. I now however can see how my struggles could give another person comfort and the impact and emotional richness it brings spurs me on.

What are some of the roles that you have stepped up to, and how did that motivate and encourage you on your mental health recovery?

I was a Human Book and recently a Facilitator for my own support group. I wanted to be a facilitator to share my experiences and support others. It has motivated me in my recovery by constantly being the stark reminder that there are very different perspectives in my life, and my volunteering and experiences in RC is one narrative that constantly reminds me that I can live a life worth living. It also encourages me that I am making someone’s life meaningful.

What would you say to someone who is thinking of being a volunteer with Resilience Collective?

It really is an experience where you embark on a journey of personal growth and get the privilege to journey with others. I started off in a small role planning my own Circles of Resilience (CR) bonding session, and any role I feel can create impact for others. Join me to make a better and safer world for people struggling with their mental health :)