Kim Newton is an office administrator and client adviser at Pact Otago, which supports people with mental health issues, addictions and intellectual disabilities. Ms Newton has experienced social phobia and anxiety. Mental Health Awareness Week began on Monday.
What was the best birthday present you ever received, and why?
A phone call from my dad at my 21st birthday party and having my relatives attend the party.
I had both sides of my family all together for the first time. It was the first time I had seen or spoken with some of them since I was young.
What smell do you find irresistible?
The smell after the rain; that clean, crisp smell as if everything is fresh again. The world washed clean.
What is your least favourite thing about humanity?
People's ability to hurt one another; to find others' weaknesses and endeavour to exploit them for their own advantage or pleasure.
What is one strong childhood memory?
My strongest childhood memory is a feeling rather than a memory. It was the sense of feeling safe and secure.
What is your message?
My message would be for people to support others to ask for help with their mental health issues, whatever they are.
Showing a little understanding and kindness goes a long way. I am living proof that with support and understanding recovery is possible.
