oUR story
"Our Story" is an acclaimed photography and digital documentary series created by Australian mental health advocate and photographer Teyarnea Nelson.
Launched in 2019, the initiative provides a powerful, authentic platform for survivors of mental illness, trauma, domestic abuse, addiction, and severe life struggles to share their vulnerabilities and personal triumphs with the world.
This photography series is about challenging stigma, even in a small way.
It's about sharing the realities of life, the messy parts, the difficult chapters, the growth, and the moments that remind us there's still so much life to live.
There are experiences hidden behind smiles, battles fought quietly, chapters that changed everything, and moments of growth that often go unseen.
I'm not only the photographer behind this project, but a participant myself. My own lived experience has shaped so much of who I am and how I see the world. I know what it's like to carry things people don't see, and how much it can mean to finally feel understood without having to explain every part of yourself.
Through this series, I hope to challenge stigma, create meaningful conversations and remind people that there is no single way to experience, survive or heal from life's challenges.
Every story shared has the potential to help someone else feel a little less alone.
If this project speaks to you, and you have a story you'd like to share, I'd love to hear from you.
You don't need to know exactly what you want to say or how to put it into words. We can start with a conversation, talk through what being involved might look like, and go from there. There's no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with. Your story is yours, and that will always come first.
If you'd like to be involved, ask a question or simply find out a little more about the project, please get in touch through T R Imagery.
If you or someone you love is struggling with mental ill health or are in an unsafe situation, please reach out. Click below to be taken to appropriate support and helplines.
SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE
24/7 Crisis support services
Lifeline
13 11 14
Online Chat
Kids Helpline
1800 55 1800
Online Chat
13YARN
13 92 76
24/7 State-specific crisis support services
ACT
ACT Crisis Assessment and Treatment Team
1800 629 354
NSW
Mental Health Line
1800 011 511
NT
Mental Health Line
1800 682 288
QLD
1300 MH CALL
1300 642 255
SA
Mental Health Triage Service
13 14 65
TAS
Access Mental Health
1800 332 388
VIC
SuicideLine Victoria
1300 651 251
WA
Mental Health Emergency Response Line
Metro -
1300 555 788
Peel -
1800 676 822
Rurallink -
1800 552 002
4.30pm - 8.30am weeknights and 24 hours on weekends and public holidays
TTY -
1800 720 101
Available 24/7