Please be aware that Speaker Spotlight stories often share experiences related to anxiety, depression and/or suicide. If needed, we encourage you to reach out to your available supports such as family, friends or support services like Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
VIC-based Speaker Bobby has lived with mental health challenges since he was a child. After experiencing a traumatic event during his childhood, it left him experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety. It wasn't until he was a teenager that he sought professional help. Despite his challenges, Bobby has been able to maintain positive mental health and well-being through self-awareness and a balanced lifestyle. Regular exercise and surrounding himself with positive people have helped him stay well. His family and two children bring him great joy and perspective as does, playing musical instruments, travelling and cheering on the Essendon Football Club.
Bobby’s journey in becoming a Speaker
Bobby was inspired to join Beyond Blue Speakers Program after hearing a Speaker share their story at an event in 2015. He was moved by the impact of their story and wanted to share his own journey to provide hope to others. Joining the Program just before the COVID-19 lockdowns in early 2020, Bobby has had the opportunity to speak at a range of events. One of Bobby’s stand out memories was at an in-person event for over 100 Australian Air Force personnel. He found the response was overwhelmingly positive, with many individuals approaching him afterwards to express how his talk inspired them to have better mental health conversations at work and in their personal lives.
"Being a Beyond Blue Speaker has helped me grow as a person and grow in confidence. This confidence has enabled me to be an advocate for mental health awareness in all aspects of my life. I am incredibly proud to be a part of such an inspiring group of people."
Bobby's message to the audience is one of hope and encouragement. By having these humanised conversations around mental health, he wants individuals to know that they can overcome their mental health challenges and maintain positive mental health and well-being.
“This makes me incredibly proud and motivates me to continue being a part of such a great program.”
Bobby believes that as a Speaker, it’s important to remember that your story is unique and inspiring. By sharing with vulnerability, you have the power to make a significant impact on someone in the audience.
“Be yourself and be calm, your story is unique and inspiring. By sharing your story and being vulnerable you will make an impact on someone in your audience. Enjoy the experience and be proud of the important message you are delivering.”
Bobby looks forward to continuing his journey as a Beyond Blue Speaker and delivering a message of hope in the community. He is also excited about continuing to grow as a parent and embracing new adventures with his family.