MURRAY Primary Health Network has launched a new campaign, His Story. End Silence. End Suicide, in a bid to reduce the rate of men’s suicide.
Suicide is the leading cause of death of Australian males aged 15-44 and the third leading cause of death of males aged 45-64.
Knowing that men are typically less likely than women to reach out for support, the campaign has been developed with the help of a consumer reference group to increase awareness and to encourage help-seeking behaviours among men.
Murray PHN chief executive Matt Jones said the strength of the campaign comes from involving those with lived and living experience.
“Mental health and suicide touches the lives of many,” he said.
“When we include those who can draw on their own life-experiences, that’s where the real power lies.
“Their unique perspectives have helped to create something that breaks the silence and importantly encourages action, and I thank each and every one of them for their involvement.”
Consumer reference group member Anthony said suicide should no longer be a taboo topic.
“If we approach it boldly and honestly, we give men the chance to share how they are feeling without the fear of judgement,” he said.
“Don’t back away from hard topics or strong emotions. If you don’t know what to say, just be there and keep listening.”
Luke, another of the consumer reference group members, agreed, saying that creating safe spaces saves lives.
“Many people are struggling quietly, and silence can be deadly,” he said.
“We need to normalise conversations about mental health, especially among men, and remind people that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
“The most important action we can take is to show up and listen.”
The men featured in the campaign also have lived and living experience.
One of those men is proud Wiradjuri man Buddy Oldman, who said the best thing he had ever done was to ask for help with his mental health.
“What you see in the footage is the raw reality of my mental health, not acting,” he said.
“If people are struggling and need help, I encourage them to speak up, not shut up.”
People can view the campaign and find a range of dedicated support resources at hisstory.com.au.
Men needing crisis support can call MensLine, 1300 789 978, 24 hours.
