It’s clear to me that so many people fail to properly understand what it means to have anxiety and be anxious. I think it’s normal for many people to have experienced the feeling of being anxious at some point in their life, but I don’t think many people know what it’s like to live a life that is controlled by anxiety. Anxiety as a mental health condition can be extremely debilitating. Many people would often misunderstand my needs and rule me as a ‘difficult’ person. It made it hard for me to forge solid relationships and maintain a successful career. It took me years to find the right type of support to help me, but once I did, it made all the difference. 

In every job I worked in because I was in constant fear that I would be let go because of my condition. I’m very lucky to have my current employer. She was so understanding of my situation and informed me that I might have eligibility to receive positive behaviour support services in Adelaide. I was truly chuffed to have an employer who was not only understanding of my difficulties but also willing to help me. 

Later that day, I made contact with a disability support service to see if I was eligible for any assistance programs. The team informed me that there were actually many support services available to people with a condition like mine. The ball started rolling pretty fast after this. I had a meeting with a disability support provider to discuss my needs, and they recommended next steps for me to start getting care. 

Positive behaviour support changed my life. It was a pleasure being able to speak to people about my anxiety and receive genuine assistance to help me better manage my condition.  I was no longer trapped in a cycle of anxiety, panic attacks and hospital visits. I feel I was able to reclaim my life and better understand myself.