COPMI Project Update - (Nov 3, 2006)

AICAFMHA:
promoting mental health for young Australians
Australian Infant, Child, Adolescent and Family Mental Health Association Ltd
ABN 87 093 479 022

This fortnight our 'reflective' Update is provided by Paola Mason, a valuable member of the COPMI Project Team who works for us in a part time capacity with special responsibilities in the areas of carer and consumer support and consultation.

Elizabeth Fudge
Project Manager,
COPMI Initiative
Ph (08) 8161 6859
Fax (08) 81616983
fudgee@aicafmha.net.au
PO Box 387, Stepney SA 5069
http://www.copmi.net.au

It is that time of the year when a great deal is reflected upon. I can't believe how quickly this year in particular has passed. Perhaps it's me just getting that little bit older.

This year so far I have been involved with a range of activities with the national COPMI project including the COPMI Reference Group, the Senate Enquiry into Mental Health in Australia, the Senate Enquiry into Work and Life Balance and the recent FaCSIA mental health forum.
I have also made presentations to staff at a non-government organisation, staff at a community centre and to 20 students aged between 15 and 17 years.
I attended the TheMHS conference in Townsville where I staffed the COPMI stand, attended various presentations and networked. I also attended the IACAPAP conference in Melbourne where Elizabeth Fudge and I staffed the COPMI booth and I co-presented with Phil Robinson.
I was responsible for the COPMI/COMIC stand at the Young Carers Expo (where the S.A. Carers Legislation was launched) and for a stand at Anglicare during Mental Health Week.I undertook a radio interview that week.

Sometimes it takes reflecting to actually see what has been achieved and I now acknowledge that I have been quite active and at times exhausted.

On the personal front, this year has challenged my caring role. Mum has aged dramatically and her needs have become greater. Mum has only recently entered into Low Level Care and seems to be settling in well (the facility has many Italian residents, the food is Italian and she seems to have made some friends already). I am still parenting a teenager with all of its joys and challenges. It has been quite a challenge trying to balance it all but, like everyone else 'I do the best that I can'.

I enjoy my work in this arena. I have said this before and continue to say, I have met and continuously meet remarkable people. I have learnt and am continuously learning a great deal and can only mention that I look forward to the next year with all of its challenges and hopefully some further triumphs.

I personally wish to extend my best wishes to you all, and thank you on all the good work that everyone in this arena has undertaken. I wish you all Buono Natale (Merry Xmas in Italian) and I also wish for you all the Best New Year. May 2007 make some of our dreams come true.

Paola