2020 Mental Health Week Ambassador Nancy Bates “My Song”

Nancy is a Song Woman, originating from Far Western NSW, and now residing on Kaurna Country in Adelaide. Her Barkindji roots—and what it means to be a woman of mixed heritage in 2020—is clearly defined within the lyrics and melodies of her original compositions.

Nancy is committed to writing music that means something to the world, and collaborates across communities to create songs for change.

In her new piece “My Song”, Nancy speaks to a challenge of hers that not many know about. Just over a year ago, she was diagnosed with Bipolar. This diagnosis has brought both deep fear and deep hope.

In her way, #MentalHealthWeek 2020 is about emancipation from the shame, and about unveiling this to her family and community. It’s about overcoming stigma, and speaking openly so that we can be a source of comfort for each other.

Bates wants to open dialogue within her community and family about mental illness, and how language and attitudes need to change so that people don’t have to hide.