When it comes to mental health and suicide, few people have the lived experience, subject matter knowledge, and drive of Suzi Evans. In 2018, Suzi's life was forever altered when police delivered heartbreaking news to her farm-the loss of her beloved son, Murray, known as Muzz, who had taken his own life, just two months before his 30th birthday.
The pain was unimaginable, shattering Suzi and her family. But from that darkness, Suzi unearthed resilience and purpose. Her journey toward healing led her to positive psychology and wellbeing. Discovering how these tools allowed her effectively to function with her grief, she became a certified trainer, determined to help others. Now, Suzi is one of Australia's most dedicated advocates, tirelessly working to influence positive change.
Suzi Evans is a trusted Mental Health First Aid Trainer, serving clients such as BHP and government agencies. She is also the founder of "Workbench for the Mind," an accredited program with Suicide Prevention Australia. With a Diploma in Positive Psychology and Wellbeing, she is an author, speaker, and a certified facilitator. Suzi also serves as a member of the Suicide Prevention Australia SA & WA joint regional committee.
Suzi firmly believes that people of all ages don't need to "toughen up" to navigate life's challenges; instead, they need to understand how the basics of the brain work. This led her to create "Workbench for the Mind". The program takes its inspiration from Muzz's favorite place, the workbench, and serves as a metaphor for how our brains, much like a well-stocked workshop, have the potential to construct a better, more resilient life-provided we have the right tools and knowledge at our disposal.
According to Suzi, it's not about striving for constant happiness, as life doesn't always work that way. Instead, it's about equipping individuals with the skills to cope with life's ups and downs in a more productive and resilient manner. With expertise ranging from Positive Psychology to coaching and Mental Health First Aid, Suzi is one of Australia's most powerful speakers about suicide, grief, and resilience. Her work primarily focuses on the Education, Health, and LGA sectors, with a special emphasis on fostering cross-generational language and communication.
Her debut book, "Grief", launching in December 2023, is a heartfelt exploration of her own experiences and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way. It's the book she wishes she had when Muzz left this world and is her contribution towards helping others navigate loss.
As an author, speaker and facilitator, Suzi's words carry the weight of personal experience and the warmth of empathy. She doesn't just talk about grief and resilience; she embodies them. This makes her one of the most respected voices about grief, mental health, and resilience in Australia. Suzi is available for speaking, interviews, and facilitation engagements.