PASSIONATE mental health advocate and The Border Watch journalist Kyra Sykes has been recognised at a state level for her outstanding contribution to raising awareness of mental health in the region.
Ms Sykes was awarded the South Australian Mental Health Promotion Award at the 2017 Mental Health Excellence Awards for her work committed to increasing awareness and reducing the stigma around mental health.
Through expressing her experiences with art in both the Penola and Mount Gambier communities, Ms Sykes is a well-known and respected mental health advocate in the region.
Art has been a significant outlet for the journalist and through her art ventures, she has courageously given the community a unique insight into her own struggle with mental health.
“At age 20, my counsellor suggested drawing as an outlet and motivator for discussion during sessions,” Ms Sykes said.
“For more than a year, I carried a sketch book and pen and drew whenever panic attack symptoms surfaced – it was a successful method which resulted in a full sketch book of emotional works.”
Her two exhibitions Scribblings of a Madman and Reflection of a Madman featured works created during her spurts of panic, reflecting her daily hardships battling anxiety and depression.
Both art exhibitions collectively raised over $1000 for The South East Junction Mental Health Activity and Resource Centre.
The money raised by Ms Sykes went towards a Coonawarra screening of the self-love film Embrace, self-harm workshops for teens and parents and supporting local live music event Dweebfest.
In between art and her career, Ms Sykes dedicates her time as a Headspace Mount Gambier Youth Reference Group member – a team which strives to raise awareness of mental health.
Ms Sykes was humbled to be recognised at a state level for mental health promotion.
“Knowing my art is giving people in the area a greater understanding of mental health issues is super rewarding in itself,” Ms Sykes said.
Her artworks have sparked an increase in events supporting mental illness and conversation, thus reducing stigma even within her own social circles.
“For me, the major goal is for people to recognise and respect mental illnesses in the same way as other medical diseases and disorders,” Ms Sykes said.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Minister Peter Malinauskas congratulated the finalists and winners of the 2017 Mental Health Excellence Awards.
“These awards recognise and celebrate those who work tirelessly to improve the mental health and the wellbeing of others,” Mr Malinauskas said.
The awards were presented on Monday afternoon at The Adelaide Pavilion.
