CAC Member Spotlight: Meet Rachel
Rachel Grace Peiris is a member of the CAN-BIND Community Advisory Committee (CAC). Read below to learn more about Rachel and why depression research is important to her.
What inspired you to get involved with the advisory group?
The last depressive episode I survived was traumatic, to say the least, and resulted in a long-awaited diagnosis of MDD. It marked a turning point in my life – for the first time, I felt seen… but I also vulnerable. Now, I couldn’t escape the reality that I needed help.
The road to recovery was long and difficult. I shuffled through medications for a while, participated in various forms of psychotherapy, and made lifestyle changes to promote my healing. Eventually, my symptoms became manageable. And, to my surprise, I began to equip myself with tools to strengthen my resiliency for future episodes. After what seems like a lifetime of fighting a losing battle, it finally feels like the odds are in my favour. I’ve taken back control of my life.
I have always been drawn to mental health research and advocacy. I studied neuroscience and psychology as an undergraduate student, and engaged in mental wellness research in clinical settings as a graduate student.
I have also coordinated research projects related to mental health at CAMH and U of T. As a consequence of my journey in school and at work, I have been exposed to many advisory groups. The importance of partnering with communities with lived experience is not lost on me – I believe that researchers who are hoping to improve the lives of people living with depression should listen to what those people have to say about their research.
Knowing what I know about depression, I’ve been wanting to contribute to research projects as a person with lived experience ever since I received my diagnosis. So, when a friend of mine told me about the open call for CAN-BIND CAC members last year, I jumped on the opportunity to apply. Being a CAC member has been deeply rewarding, and I hope to continue in this role for as long as I can.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your advisory work?
Ilove to read, swim, listen to music, and play the piano. Hiking is also one of my favourite things to do – it pulls my attention outward and reminds me that my life is so intricately intertwined with something bigger.
What’s your favourite way to unwind after a busy day?
A cup of tea with honey does the trick for me, especially when paired with a good book, movie, or TV show.
Do you have a personal motto or favourite quote that motivates you?
“The deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain.”
-The Prophet, Kahlil Gibran