Jocaine Gegg - Mental Health

I worked in administrative roles and had always wanted to study, but wasn't sure what I wanted to do.

After my brother-in-law suicided following mental health and alcohol addiction problems, I decided to study mental health. I wanted to be able to help others and gain a greater understanding of what they were going through.

I initially completed both the Certificates IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs and Mental Health at CIT, and I am currently studying the Diploma of Community Services (Alcohol, Other Drugs and Mental Health), which I will complete this year. I’m really enjoying the course – I find it very challenging rewarding.

During my certificate IV, I completed a placement at the Sobering Up Shelter. The placement meant I was better equipped than if I had just gone straight into the workforce, and I had lots of support from both the shelter and CIT. It not only gave me great practical experience, but it led to a job and I now work there part-time.

Now that I'm working in the industry, it has helped my studies even more, because I can learn in the classroom, but I have somewhere where I can apply the skills.

I would like to continue to work in community services, and get as much experience as I can. I also might pursue further study at university. I never thought I would be able to go to uni, but my study through CIT has made me realise it’s achievable.