Jenny’s Story

Learning how to live well with greater self-compassion in advocating for better physical health care.

I have lived with mental health challenges for much of my life, both personally and as a carer. From an early age, mental illness shaped my world and the responsibilities I carried. Much of my energy was spent surviving and supporting others, often without recognising the impact this had on my own mental and physical health.

My recovery journey has not been linear. There have been periods of crisis, exhaustion, and deep self-doubt, alongside moments of growth, clarity, and hope. Over time, I learned that recovery is not about returning to who I once was, but about learning how to live well with greater self-compassion. A key turning point was recognising that mental and physical health are deeply connected — when one was neglected, the other inevitably suffered.

Jenny Smith Share My Story image

What supported my recovery most were small, consistent strategies. Peer support helped me feel understood and less alone. Establishing routines that prioritised sleep, nutrition, movement, and rest supported my body as well as my mind.

Learning to advocate for myself within health systems — asking questions, expressing concerns, and being involved in decisions — restored a sense of control and dignity, especially when I was treated as a whole person rather than a diagnosis.

Success did not come through one defining moment, but through many small steps: recognising early signs of distress, reaching out for support, setting boundaries, and allowing myself to accept help without guilt. These moments built confidence and showed me that recovery could be sustainable.

Today, I use my lived experience to support and advocate for others. I believe respectful storytelling has the power to reduce stigma, influence systems, and remind us that when mental and physical health are supported together, people are given a greater chance to live with dignity, hope, and genuine wellbeing.