Sarah Louise has fought through devastating lows to turn her life around and crack a smile – overcoming years of ongoing depression and childhood trauma. 

She attributes her new-found happiness to “weaning off medication” and instead discussing her feelings and emotions with real people in similar situations.

A part-time worker and student, Ms Louise threw her support behind Embrace, Wagga’s first mental health support group lead by local bipolar campaigner Samantha Brunskill. 

“It’s extremely comforting to know that people living with mental health issues will be encouraged to open up and share – it’s the most therapeutic thing you can do,” she said. 

“Often people who have been diagnosed with a mental health condition isolate themselves and bundle it up inside, which is the worst thing to do. 

“It makes it that much more bearable when you have someone else to relate to, you aren’t alone.”

Ms Louse battled the notorious condition on and off for almost a decade, citing a reliance on medication as a huge barrier in her recovery. 

Ms Brunskill’s Embrace support group, which starts at 5.30pm on Thursday at the Relationships Australia office, was created to advocate healthier alternatives to medications. 

A young woman who has lived with bipolar for more than six years, Ms Brunskill knows all too well the debilitating toll that a mental illness can take. 

She said the group would empower locals living with mental illnesses to socialise and share their experiences. 

“We want to look at healthy, natural ways people can combat illness, not just medication,” she said. 

“It will be about education, a place where people can support each other and share their emotions and experiences, in a fun and nurturing environment.”

The meet-ups will will be held on the first Thursday of every month.

Those who need help or assistance can call beyondblue on 1300 224 636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.