Carnarvon Power Systems Officer (PSO) Samuel Liau is taking part in the 2019 Busselton Jetty Swim to raise money for Black Dog Institute’s mental health research.
Sam is competing in the 3.6 km solo swim on Sunday, 10 February 2019 and has been waking up at 5.30 am every morning before going to work for a 1 km swim in order to prepare for the Busselton Jetty Swim.
“The best thing about the Busselton Jetty Swim is the challenge of training for the event. I've had to prepare myself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually which helps me establish a balanced routine which keeps me healthy and positive,” Sam said.
Though he has completed the swim twice in 2016 and 2017, he has never fundraised. The Black Dog Institute has helped Sam live with bipolar disorder so he chose to raise money to help the charity achieve their goals:
- To diagnose mood disorders accurately and early
- Treat them using innovative, effective and accessible strategies
- Prevent their onset by understanding why and who they affect
- To reduce the overall impact of mental illness and save lives
Sometimes people avoid seeking diagnosis and treatment for mental illness because they think it will be too difficult but Sam is hoping to inspire others.
“I’ve struggled with my mental health for around seven years and it’s the first time I’m speaking up about it because I want people to know that help is available,” Sam said.
“Mental health awareness is very important and we can always do more to promote it.”
Black Dog Institute's vision is a world where the onset of depression and suicide can be prevented and treated. With your help we can make this vision a reality.
Over the next two months, our employees are helping Sam raise money for the Black Dog Institute. If you would like to learn more about the fundraising, please visit Samuel’s Team Black Dog Everydayhero page.