Straight Up

These documentaries explore the lived experience of people in recovery from mental health and substance issues and their carers. They can enhance dual diagnosis training. Go to the NEXUS website for tools and resources.
Please note that these videos contain strong language and some topics may be distressing for some viewers.
Check the links below if you require assistance.

NEXUS

Located at St Vincent's hospital, Melbourne, NEXUS is a component of the Victorian Dual Diagnosis Initiative (VDDI). Our role is to enhance dual diagnosis capability across the AOD (Alcohol and Other Drug) and MH (Mental Health) sectors. Note that NEXUS is not a direct mental health service provider. If you are distressed and need assistance please contact Lifeline 13 11 14.

NEXUS commissioned Cameron Rose to produce the Straight Up videos. A big thank you to APSU at SHARC who were instrumental in their production.

Learn more about NEXUS

Videos

The following recovery stories highlight a number of important issues and challenges for people who experience, or are affected by another’s, substance use and mental health issues (Dual Diagnosis). These are real and lived individual experiences. Some of the stories may contain sensitive and confronting material related to trauma and suicide. We hope to encourage people to reflect on and consider the realities of the lived experience and to think about ways that recovery can be supported.

One page training guides for each of the videos can be found under the "Resources" section of the NEXUS website.

LemLei

LemLei describes her own journey from a naiive young girl to addiction and the importance on being treated as a person and not "what you had become." She also comments on how significant mediation between herself and her parents was for her recovery.
Animation by Georgina Young.
Music by Jasmin Fiske.
Written and directed by Cameron Rose.

Louisa

Louisa tells of the frustration she has experienced when seeking help for her son and the importance of lived experience.
Animation by Abigail Hawkins
Music by Jasmin Fiske
Written and directed by Cameron Rose

Brendan

Brendan speaks about his suicide attempts and what has really helped his recovery.
Animation by Karen Wang
Music by Jasmin Fiske
Written and directed by Cameron Rose

Lyn

Lyn wonders what happened to the little boy she knew and wished she'd known more about her son's issues before his suicide.
Animation by Bonnie Koopmans
Music by Jasmin Fiske
Written and directed by Cameron Rose

Johan

Johan explains his path to addiction and recovery and how being treated like a normal human being gave him the motivation to see it through.
Animation by Darci Campbell and Jennifer Cheng
Music by Jasmin Fiske
Written and directed by Cameron Rose

Philip

Philip describes his journey to recovery and how his experiences have more clarity and interest without the fog of substances.
Animation by Jessica Kerss
Music by Jasmin Fiske
Written and directed by Cameron Rose

Resources

SHARC - SHARC works with families, individuals and young people to provide housing, education, advocacy and family support.
DirectLine - Confidential alcohol and drug counselling and referral in Victoria.
Health Victoria - Hub for health services and businesses including a service search for Victorian Health services.
Dual Diagnosis Australia and New Zealand - This website offers information and resources for people with an interest in dual diagnosis and other complex needs.