OUR STORY
In Nov 2020, we lost our 18-year-old daughter to suicide. No one saw it coming, she had never voiced that she was depressed, she never did things like cut herself, or act out. She was always happy and every time we asked how she was doing she said … “I’m ok!” She never shared with her closest friends, she never reached out to us or any family, or any of the existing suicide hotlines. She went down that dark path on her own, silently, and constantly building her fears and anxieties about her life in her mind, without reaching out. In isolation, her mental state won – she convinced herself that the pain of life was too much to handle and hung herself in her closet.
Her death affected people across the spectrum. Her siblings, cousins, relatives, friends, acquaintances, all came to a crippling halt when they heard, and everyone said the same thing… “I’m so shocked, she never said anything.” If she could only see the amount of people that were affected by her death, if she could only see how many around her were willing and ready to support her… there is a good chance that she will be with us today. All she had to do was reach out, and many times that is the scariest thing- because we feel exposed, we feel that people will label us, and facing that pain, that ownership of our pain is scary, and sometimes too much to handle. Without support they feel abandoned, alone, desolated, and they perceived pain is so great that they do not see any light down the tunnel. They feel like they have no other choice… but the support is there if you reach out!
We decided to make a real difference in the lives of teenagers and young people who are struggling with mental illness silently. We would like for young people and teens to know that is it’s ok to share not only your strengths, but it’s ok to share your struggles, your weaknesses, your anxieties, and fears about your circumstances. The act of reaching out to one’s peers, to a stranger, or to anyone, brings an awareness to the problem. It will help defuse the fear and mounting anxiety, and it will help start the slow and long road of support and changes in that person’s life. The fear is always bigger than the reality.
Since her passing, we have been able to help many young people avoid suicide with the support of friends, family, and professional doctors who have generously volunteered their time and services towards addressing this critical issue. As a result, Athenie’s Angels charity was established.
Who we are.
We are Athenie’s Angels Aus. Ltd, (AAAL), a registered health promotion charity based in Victoria. AAAL is committed to improving the lives of individuals who are impacted by mental health challenges. We provide accessible and high-quality mental health services, tools, and resources to support individuals as they navigate through their journey towards better mental health. Meet the team
Our Mission.
Our mission is to increase awareness and understanding of mental health issues, reduce stigma, and promote positive mental health and well-being primarily for young people ages 13 to 29. We offer a range of services, including, but not limited to, counselling, support groups, mindfulness, and meditation.
We believe that mental health is a journey, and everyone deserves the support they need to live their best possible life. Our team of mental health professionals, volunteers, and supporters work hard to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all individuals, regardless of their race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.
Our goal is to empower individuals with mental health challenges to take charge of their lives and overcome any obstacles that may come their way. We strive to make a positive impact on the lives of people in our community and beyond. Together, we can build a world where mental health is prioritized, and everyone has access to the support they need to lead a fulfilling life.
Life Challenges are temporary, Suicide is not!
Our objectives.
Mental health is a journey
To promote the prevention or control of a mental disease, illness, or condition, contributing to the health and well-being of individuals and communities.
To promote mental wellness by raising awareness, providing information and education, and encouraging healthy behaviours and lifestyles.
To provide support and services to people affected by a mental disease, illness, or condition, including their families and carers.
To advocate for medical research, treatment, and care for a mental disease, illness, or condition to improve health outcomes.
To raise funds to support our mental wellness objectives and to ensure efficient and effective use of resources.
To offer a range of services, including, but not limited to, counseling, support groups, mindfulness, and meditation.
Mental health is a priority
Our Vision.
Promote mental wellbeing
Eradicate stigmas and judgements associated with mental illness.
To encourage open conversations about mental health.
Reduce the number of suicides amongst young people
Behind the Statistics.
(Pre-Covid)
1 in 10
PEOPLE
with mental illness
dies by suicide
1 in 5
AUSTRALIANS
suffers from a mental
illness each year
~75%
MENTAL HEALTH
problems occur before
the age of 25
Acknowledgement of Country
Athenie’s Angels Aus. acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures and elders past and present.
