Meet Rebecca
At MENTBEST, we know that real stories make real change. That’s why our co-creators play such an important role in shaping mental health solutions that genuinely work. Today, we’d love for you to meet Rebecca O’Brien from Ireland—a passionate advocate who has turned her own experiences into something meaningful and impactful.
From here on, Rebecca shares her story in her own words.
Rebecca’s Path to Advocacy
My name is Rebecca O’Brien, and I’m from Ireland. I work as a Special Needs Assistant (SNA) in a school for teenagers, and I discovered MENTBEST through my previous involvement in several lived-experience projects.
Building Experience and Finding Purpose
My journey began as a volunteer ‘voices contributor’ for an Irish youth information and support platform (‘SpunOut’). I wrote articles about my experience of being diagnosed with autism as a teenager and my mental health journey, covering topics such as inpatient treatment and medication. Later, I joined the Grassroots Forum for Mental Health Reform, Ireland’s leading coalition on mental health. This led me to the opportunity to become part of the Lived Experience Panel for the National Suicide Research Foundation, the Irish organisation involved in the MENTBEST project.
Why I Joined MENTBEST
I was motivated to become a co-creator for MENTBEST because, instead of seeing the negative, I like to use my lived experience for good and to contribute to the goal of helping others in similar positions. To me, co-creation means growing together as a team and building a community that recognises the strengths and uniqueness each member can bring to the table.
My Role in the Project
As part of MENTBEST, I attend online meetings and workshops. I’ve also had the honour of participating in the development of the MENTINA app, a personalised self-management and mental health support tool for people at risk of or experiencing depressive symptoms and anxiety. In the past, all lived experience projects I’ve been involved in have been Irish. MENTBEST is my first time working with international co-creators, which has been exciting as I now have a better understanding of cultural contexts regarding mental health in different countries to broaden my perspective.
Finding My Voice
Initially, I felt conscious that many co-creators were mental health professionals, while I only had my lived experience to offer. However, it has been a privilege to work alongside these professionals and have my insights equally valued—especially when giving feedback on the MENTINA app. Having my voice heard and validated has been the most rewarding part of this journey. Attending the MENTBEST Co-Creators Evaluation meeting in Barcelona was a milestone for me—it was my first time travelling solo as an autistic person and meeting a new group of people.
Why Lived Experience Matters
I think lived experience is absolutely vital in the creation of mental health interventions. In fact, I don’t believe any such intervention would be successful without it, as it wouldn’t provide the full potential to truly help people.
Looking Ahead
After attending the Co-Creators Evaluation meeting, I am looking forward to the progression of the MENTBEST project. I am confident in the positive impact it will have on real people’s lives, as it is created by a team of passionate individuals with a vast array of knowledge and experience.
Join the Conversation
Rebecca’s story shows just how powerful lived experience can be in shaping mental health solutions that genuinely make a difference. At MENTBEST, we’re building tools and resources with real people, for real people—because that’s how change happens. Want to learn more about what we’re doing and meet other inspiring voices? Head over to www.mentbest.com and be part of the journey toward better mental health for everyone.