When Caitlyn, 21, from Melbourne, signed up for The Push-Up Challenge in 2024, her motivation was simple: "All of my friends were doing it, and it seemed like something cool to do to spread awareness for mental health." But her decision to participate had a deeper significance.
Caitlyn chose to fundraise for Lifeline, a charity she believes is essential for people in crisis to access immediate support. She chose Lifeline due to "its impact for those in need to have an immediate point of contact for those suffering from a crisis," she said.
For Caitlyn, mental health advocacy is personal. During her time at university, she faced a crisis herself. At the age of 19, she found herself overwhelmed by feelings of stress, worthlessness, and self-loathing. "I went to my doctor saying I didn’t want to be alive anymore... My doctor put me on the phone with a crisis hotline, and I was given support that I needed."
Her recovery journey was difficult, marked by setbacks, " Not long after the treatment had started, I took an attempt on my life.” Further intervention was required, with assistance from her residential supervisor at university. “After this ordeal, I went to see a new doctor. This doctor helped me feel heard and seen in a way my previous one hadn’t.”
Caitlyn understands the barriers many Australians face when seeking help: "The wait to see professional help is long, longer if you’re low income and can’t afford professional help without concession." She strongly believes early intervention is crucial, and charities like Lifeline play a vital role in providing free, accessible services during moments of urgency.
Reflecting on her own experiences, Caitlyn shared what helped her manage her mental health: "Knowing when I need a break. Whether that is schoolwork, work-work, or even a social break. Giving myself the chance to recharge and recuperate at my pace." She also highlights the importance of regular medication reviews, which proved transformative in her own recovery. “After changing my medication, getting away from the unhealthy people in my life, changing my job; and with time, I’ve found life a little bit easier - and my mental health has improved drastically.”
For Caitlyn, joining The Push-Up Challenge was not just a physical feat but an opportunity to make an impact. "Do it. It’s worth the push. It’s certainly no cakewalk, but when you finish it, you’ll feel incredible," she said, urging others to participate.
Her message about mental ill-health and recovery is an important one: "The stairs in mental health are steep... but it gets easier; eventually, the steps become smaller, the pace will be even, and the strength you’ve built over time will help you get back on your feet when you fall. A setback in your mental health isn’t a halt on life. Being able to live the life you want to live is worth the battle."
Lifeline is available 24 hours a day to listen, without judgement. If you or someone you know needs crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or text on 0477 13 11 14.
Read more lived experience stories from others who have been impacted by mental health challenges on our Stories page.
