Helen Williams founded the Anxiety Disorders Association (ADASE) in 1993-2016 following a very personal experience with such a condition.

Helen was awarded Australia Day Citizen of the year in 2011 for her tireless work in advocating for those suffering from Anxiety Disorders and Depression.

Many attempts to gain services for Mental Health in the South East of South Australia had been unsuccessful in attracting government funding.

In 2007-2008, with the support of the Anxiety Disorders Association South East, it was suggested to Helen that because of her lived experiences she should try and do something herself to assist those suffering from anxiety disorders and depression.

As a result, in 2008, Helen designed and delivered a PowerPoint program named “A Great Step Forward.” She had found a new pathway to recovery within the book “Mind Over Mood”, which is based on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.

Helen went on to study to become a qualified Trainer and Assessor with a Diploma in Community Services Mental Health. This enabled her to deliver “A Great Step Forward” program to consumers from all over the South East of South Australia for 8 years.

This program attracted nationwide attention as it was the first of its kind in Australia. Its’ uniqueness and effectiveness lay in the fact that it was led by a qualified Consumer with a Lived Experience.

The program, which showed that there were improvements in excess of 70%, was evaluated and accredited by Flinders University.

After a consistent and tireless battle over 23 years to gain support from the Australian Government, the Anxiety Disorders Association closed in 2016.

“This type of therapy is the way of the future if only someone would listen!” said Mrs. Williams.

Not being content to leave matters there, Helen set about writing this powerful book which is about to be launched this year: “The Jigsaw Within My Mind “

“I have written this book in the hope that it will help others suffering from Anxiety Disorders and Depression to also find the pathway to recovery.”

The book will be officially launched by Professor Malcolm Battersby on May 1st at 1.30-3pm at the City Hall (Cave Gardens) in Mount Gambier SA.

Anyone even remotely affected by the search for improvements and support for Mental Health is invited.

Media Enquiries:

Helen Williams - by using the contact Helen form below.

Bookings: Library Marketing and Promotions Officer

City of Mount Gambier

www.mountgambier.sa.gov.au

Phone 08 87212565

Books will be available on the day of the launch $39.95 

Also at Chapmans News agency Commercial Street West Mount Gambier SA 5290

Also available by using the contact Helen form below.

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