Meet our people: Tee Jay’s Story

Meet our people: Tee Jay’s Story

What mental health means to me

For me, mental health is everything. It’s about peace of mind and resilience – not avoiding hardship, but having the tools, support and self-awareness to keep moving forward for myself and those I love.

Taking accountability

I’ve faced deep losses: by 27, I’d lost both parents and my grandmother to cancer and experienced redundancy the same day I admitted my mum into hospice. Later, in 2023, I lost my big brother unexpectedly. Each time, I knew I couldn’t do it alone. Grief counselling, rest, openness with colleagues and creating rituals like a 36km charity walk in my brother’s honour helped me survive – and eventually thrive.

My advice

Invest in yourself – personally, professionally and emotionally. Stay curious, nurture uplifting relationships and remember well-being is holistic: mental, physical, emotional and spiritual.

Where I am now

Life is fuller now. My husband and I moved from Melbourne to a rustic beach cottage in SE Queensland, where I’ve discovered the grounding joy of gardening. Our Bordoodle, Cee-Cee, has brought energy, play, and “puppy power” into every day.

Parting words

Do what makes you feel alive, whatever that looks like for you. For me, it’s beach walks, laughter with family, and working the land. Mental health isn’t a destination – it’s a daily practice. Each small step builds resilience for life’s storms and helps you savour its sunshine.

• Advice to younger self
  Always stay curious and back yourself. You don’t need all the answers — just the courage to learn as you go.
• Downtime
  Give me family, fresh air, and a good book any day. I love moving my body, being in nature, and devouring non-fiction on mindset and wellness.
• Ultimate luxury
  Water views, always. From Sydney Harbour to quiet lakes, and now a mountain-framed cottage near Palm Beach - it feels like heaven on earth.
• Dream dinner guest
  My mum and dad. I miss them dearly, I’d cook up a feast, pour all my love into it and soak up every second of their company.
• Superpower
  I’d be a Magic Genie (minus the lamp) -  nothing makes me happier than making wishes come true and sprinkling a little magic for others.