Avery
Content Warning: These stories are about violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation and may include references to suicide or self-harming behaviours. They may contain graphic descriptions and strong language and may be distressing. Some narratives may be about First Nations people who have passed away. If you need support, please see Contact & support.
Avery is a transgender person in their early 20s. They have anxiety, depression and dysmenorrhea.
Some years ago, Avery told the Royal Commission, they had a mental health crisis. They went to the only acute mental health service in their area but were turned away.
‘My illnesses were not taken seriously by over 10 mental health care providers – psychologists, mental health social workers, GPs, helpline workers, etc.’ Avery said. ‘[This] deeply discouraged me, intensified my suicidal ideation and prolonged my access to treatment by several years.’
When Avery did access services they found the healthcare system to be unsafe for transgender people.
‘I am misgendered every time I have accessed any type of healthcare.’ Avery said they have faced ‘multiple micro‐aggressions and many indications that my cis‐assuming privilege is the only thing keeping me safe’.
Healthcare providers who provide no options for Avery to indicate their gender or preferred pronouns are not a safe space for Avery. ‘I will avoid seeking medical care, even when I am deeply in need.’
Avery has found the mental healthcare system to be a series of random services and referrals. It is easy for people to slip through the cracks.
Getting help should not be difficult, they said. Providers need to reduce long waiting lists and cost of services.
Avery’s friends with similar disabilities have experienced the same problems. Avery credits ‘the tenacity of their care givers and parents who fought for us to receive treatment’.
Avery, their parents and GP are deeply disappointed in the acute mental health services in their area.
‘If you actually care about disabled people and think that mental health is just as important as physical health, then step up and make psychologists, psychiatrists and other mental healthcare easily accessible for everyone.’
Disclaimer: This is the story of a person who shared their personal experience with the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability through a submission or private session. The names in this story are pseudonyms. The person who shared this experience was not a witness and their account is not evidence. They did not take an oath or affirmation before providing the story. Nothing in this story constitutes a finding of the Royal Commission. Any views expressed are those of the person who shared their experience, not of the Royal Commission.