Laura, 20,  Brisbane

Hobbies: Swimming, socialising.

Briefly describe your experience of depression.

Before I was diagnosed with depression, I felt a lack of motivation and loss of interest in things that I once enjoyed. My appetite was non-existent and I slept a lot as a way of escaping the emotions I was experiencing. I had a general feeling of “emptiness” and I had no control over my emotions.

On top of all this, I was scared to socialise and did not want to be around people. All these symptoms led me to have suicidal thoughts. I was not always able to attend lectures and tutorials due to feeling depressed and I had to take time off my work as an Assistant Nurse.

One day when I was sitting beside a lake, it hit me that things were not right. After a few months of continuing to battle these feelings, I was encouraged by close friends to seek help. I developed a support network consisting of my GP and psychologist. It was through their support and advice that I began to get back on track again and slowly eliminate these ‘yucky’ feelings I was experiencing.

What do you think young people need to know about keeping mentally healthy?

You need to be constantly conscious of your thoughts and feelings. In addition to this, knowing where to seek help if you are concerned, is very important. This may include speaking with a friend, family member or health professional. These three contacts are what I call supplies for your “tool box”. If we fill our tool box with as many contacts as possible, when things start to break down, they can be fixed.

What does the National Youth Week theme ‘Live it Now!’ mean to you?

Personally for me the phrase “live it now!” means to make the most of every opportunity we are given and live for the present as we never know what is around the corner.

What’s the best thing about being a young person?

The best thing about being a young person is that you have so many opportunities and options of which way to lead your life and career. The most exciting part is that it is completely up to you which road you choose to take.