Murray Primary Health Network has launched a new campaign in a bid to reduce the rate of men’s suicide.
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A new campaign that aims to reduce the rate of men’s suicide has been launched by Murray Primary Health Network.
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The ‘His Story. End Silence. End Suicide’ campaign hopes to tackle the leading cause of death of Australian men aged 15 to 44, and the third-leading cause in men aged 45 to 64.
As men are typically less likely to seek support, the campaign has been developed with the help of a consumer reference group to increase awareness and encourage help-seeking behaviours among men.
Luke, a member of the reference group, said that many people struggled quietly, but silence could be deadly.
“We need to normalise conversations about mental health, especially among men, and remind people that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness,” he said.
“The most important action we can take is to show up and listen.”
Men featured in campaign material, including posters and footage, also have lived experience with suicide and mental health.
Professional boxer and Wiradjuri man Buddy Oldman is among those featured, and said asking for help with his mental health was the best thing he’d ever done.
Boxer Buddy Oldman features in Murray PHN’s new campaign.
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“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.”
In Australia, 2500 men died by suicide last year, and the campaign is encouraging men to avoid isolation, discuss challenges they may be going through and promote hope.
Murray PHN chief executive Matt Jones said the campaign’s strength came from involving those with lived experience.
“Mental health and suicide touches the lives of many. When we include those who can draw on their own life-experiences, that’s where the real power lies,” he said.
“Their unique perspectives have helped to create something that breaks the silence and, importantly, encourages action. I thank each and every one of them for their involvement.”
To view the campaign and find a range of dedicated support resources, visit hisstory.com.au
If you or a man in your life needs help, Mensline Australia is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by phoning 1300 78 99 78, or visit mensline.org.au
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