** CONTENT WARNING **
Due to the nature of this Podcast and the discussions that I have with Guests, I feel it's important to underline that there may be content within the episodes that have the potential to cause harm. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact one of the services below for support.
Please be aware that we will be discussing suicide and suicide ideation during this episode. **
This week get Ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of Maggie Deall, a retired New South Wales Police Sergeant who embarked on a mission to contribute to her community. At 28 Maggie transitioned from managing bars, clubs, and restaurants in Sydney to a career in law enforcement.
From the eastern suburbs to the state surveillance branch. She embraced every opportunity, thriving with the guidance of senior officers. In 2009, Maggie transferred to Lightning Ridge and moved to Walgett shortly after where she was promoted to Sergeant. It's here that Maggie began her journey with isolation and mental illness.
A transfer to Wagga Wagga bought new challenges, further impacting her mental health, battling toxicity and unhappiness within the station. Maggie took a brave step, leaving in 2021 to focus on her wellbeing. Wagga Wagga may have been tough, but it became the birthplace of Maggie's artistic revival. In 2021, she opened a little yellow house, art, gallery, and studio, showcasing not just her work, but that of over 30 local artists.
The gallery has become a haven for creative women and a vibrant, supportive community. Reflecting on her service with pride, Maggie believes that she has truly become the person she was meant to be. Despite ongoing mental healthcare, she's witnessed the bad days becoming rarer. Maggie shares her story to inspire fellow first responders.
Proving that life beyond the badge is not only possible, but incredibly rewarding. Join us as we dive into Maggie's journey of resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life beyond the constraints of the job.
Find Maggie on her Website, on Instagram and Facebook
Mental Health Resources:
000 - Concerns for someone's immediate welfare, please call 000 (Australia)
LIFELINE, Crisis Support & Suicide Prevention - 13 11 14 - https://www.lifeline.org.au/
Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636 - https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
1800 Respect, Domestic, Family & Sexual Violence Counselling - 1800 737 732 - https://www.1800respect.org.au/
Suicide Call Back Service, 24hr free video & online counselling - 1300 659 467 - https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/
Blue Knot, Empowering Recovery from Complex Trauma - 1300 650 380 - https://blueknot.org.au/
Head Space, National Youth Mental Health Foundation - https://www.headspace.com/
Black Dog Institute - https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/
