Bertram student found help when she had nowhere to turn

Looking back on her teen years, Bertram resident Breanna Jones says she would have been lost without her school chaplain.

Miss Jones was a victim of bullying in her first year of high school and her mental health deteriorated dramatically as a result.

The 20-year-old said she was so depressed in Year 8 she was having suicidal thoughts and at one point came close to taking her life.

The following year, Miss Jones received a scholarship to The King's College, where she met the school's chaplain James Alviani.

"The chaplain at the school really helped me," she said.

"I was so depressed, I didn't want to be close with anyone and I had a lot of fear."

Miss Jones said Mr Alviani helped her feel welcome at the school, overcome her fears and build friendships.

"He became like that older brother that I needed back then," she said.

"I didn't want to turn to my family because I didn't want them to worry.

"His role was to be that person that students could go to - he was their secret keeper."

Miss Jones said even the thought of funding for chaplains being cut worried her. "He was there for me when I thought no one else was and if it wasn't for him I seriously don't know what would have happened," she said.

"It makes me worry about the other kids out there who are like me and have no one to turn to.

"If they take chaplains out of schools, that's one less person that could be the person who saves that kid's life."

Miss Jones said Mr Alviani's religious background had never crossed her mind.

"It crossed my parents' minds, they were very afraid that I was going to end up brainwashed, but it never crossed my mind, they don't pressure it on you," she said.

Mr Alviani said most parents were supportive of his role.

"Anyone who sees what chaplains do is supportive, because they realise it isn't really about religion, it is more about just being there to help," he said.

"I think the main thing is that chaplains are trained to give students complete freedom, in the choices they make, in terms of religion and faith."

If you or someone you know is thinking of suicide, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14. Help is also available via Rural Link (1800 552 002) and the Suicide Call Back Line (1300 659 467).