Lockdowns, social distancing requirements, travel restrictions, and the constantly changing position we find ourselves in is stressful. This makes prioritising our mental health and wellbeing more important than ever. Showcase SA brought together a panel of mental health pioneers to shed light on the importance of talking about this taboo subject, from a variety of career backgrounds, armed forces, local government and media.

Heath Jamieson told his story from when in the mountains of Afghanistan, was shot through the neck, almost costing him his life. Through perseverance, Heath recovered, creating a new life for himself – becoming a helicopter pilot, polar guide and now volunteering to help the young people of Operation Flinders.

We also heard from John Mannion, the state’s newest Mental Health Commissioner and inaugural Executive Director of Breakthrough Mental Health Foundation – Australia’s only foundation dedicated solely to mental health research. John’s career in mental health has spanned more than 30 years including as a practitioner as well as leading mental health services across the state.

Photography credit to: Matthew Kroker