Mental Health Advocate Receives Honour for Lifelong Dedication

Deborah Kay Fraser-Komene, a dedicated advocate for mental health, has been recognised for her significant contributions to improving mental health outcomes for young people in New Zealand. She has served as the director of Mirror Services in Otago and Southland since the early 2000s, overseeing counselling and treatment programmes for young individuals and their families.

Acknowledgement of Service

Fraser-Komene expressed her gratitude upon being appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, stating it was “totally unexpected and beyond what I would have anticipated happening.” Her journey into mental health advocacy began after she trained as an addictions counsellor, drawing from her personal experiences with substance abuse and addiction.

Having overcome her own addiction in her mid-20s, Fraser-Komene has been open about her lived experience. She believes this journey has had a profound impact on her professional path and leadership style. “Recovery taught me that meaningful change is possible, even when it feels out of reach. That belief has underpinned my work ever since,” she remarked.

Commitment to Community and Culture

Fraser-Komene acknowledges the importance of collaboration in her field. “No work in this sector is done in isolation,” she emphasised, thanking colleagues, mentors, and communities that have supported her over several decades. Her work at Mirror Services has fostered a strong commitment to bicultural practices, enhancing understanding of te reo Māori, culture, and whānau, which has improved service delivery and outcomes.

In addition to her role at Mirror, Fraser-Komene has made a significant impact at the national level. As a leader in the National Committee on Addiction Treatment (NCAT), she has helped shape policies and service delivery across New Zealand.

Fraser-Komene highlighted the courage required for individuals seeking help with mental health or addiction challenges. “The bravest step someone can take is asking for help. That decision affirms that their life, wellbeing, and future matter, even when they may feel the complete opposite,” she stated, reinforcing the importance of support in the recovery process.

Through her ongoing commitment and advocacy, Deborah Kay Fraser-Komene continues to inspire many, demonstrating that recovery is possible and that a supportive community can make a significant difference in the lives of young people facing mental health challenges.