“I got the right help at the right time and I’m genuinely glad I’m still here,” he said.

Mr Dorey was 40 years-old when relationship issues and “a long list of things” from his life caught up with him. 

“I didn’t get the help I needed initially and it built up until the camel couldn’t take anymore straws on its back,” he said. 

Mr Dorey was admitted to South West Healthcare’s mental health ward where he sought help for a chronic health condition and anxiety and depression.

“It wasn’t a matter of not wanting to live, it was not wanting to cause any pain for anyone else.

“My family and friends (were feeling my pain). I didn’t want to be a burden on them anymore and that’s how I felt, that I was a burden.”

Mr Dorey attended Tuesday’s forum and is supportive of anything that encourages people to ask for help and raises awareness about the support services available.

He said early intervention and ongoing support for people who attempted suicide and their families was needed.

“The suicide rate is twice as high as the road toll and there’s still that much stigma about it. 

“I heard someone say (suicide’s) the most selfish act you can do but that’s the furthest thing from the truth. 

“At the time you don’t think there is any other option.

“(The anxiety) was crippling. I couldn’t go out side the front door because I thought I was going to die. It was that bad.

He said it was a slow road to recovery which included two years of intensive work. 

“It was the hardest job I’ve ever done but the most rewarding.”

Mr Dorey went from working in sales in a multi-million dollar company, to retraining to become a peer support worker at South West Healthcare.

He also facilitates the Warrnambool Wellways recovery group, working with people with mental health issues. 

“I turned my experiences around I now work in mental health and help other people with their stuff.

“I’m trying to make their journeys a little bit easier. I do get what it’s feels like to be completely lost and what it’s like to live it.”

He said a change of career, new relationship and outlook meant he was enjoying life again.

“I actually wake up and think ‘It’s Tuesday what’s on today?’ rather than ‘Oh shit I woke up’.”

He encouraged others to visit their GP or contact Lifeline who could provide links to services.

“Life turned around from what was seemingly rock bottom. It’s turned around and become good again.”