To mark Men’s Health Week on 12th to 18th June, Suicide Prevention Australia in partnership with Australian Men’s Health Forum, has launched “I found support that worked” – a campaign designed to inspire men who may be struggling to reach out for support.
The campaign, created in collaboration with Silver Lining Agency, centers around a profound realisation that every man’s journey, circumstances, and the support he finds are unique. It showcases the stories of four courageous men who share their lived experience and how they overcame their darkest moments by finding support that worked for them.
At the heart of the campaign lies the Doing It Tough website, a platform which connects men with more than 150 support services based on where they live, the challenges they face and the type of support they need whether it’s clinical, face-to-face, virtual, or peer support.
NSW Mental Health Minister, Rose Jackson, said knowing where to turn to get support when you are doing it tough was essential.
“We know men can find it harder to reach out for support when they are going through a rough time, and Doing it Tough provides a one stop shop full of resources, information, and links to support services which men can turn to during those challenging times.
“Streamlining access to mental health support is crucial, we are proud to support Suicide Prevention Australia to bring this essential website to life.”
Suicide Prevention Australia CEO, Nieves Murray said, “Sadly, 3,000 people die by suicide each year and three quarters are men. Support services are not always accessible or appropriate for men which is why this campaign provides a sense of hope for those who may not know how to reach out for support.”
“These men share deeply personal stories of lived experience and the resounding message is to reach out and talk because each time it becomes easier.”
Australian Men’s Health Forum CEO, Glen Poole said, “Too many men are doing it tough, and this can damage their health, their quality of life and even put them at risk of suicide. We know that men may have to try numerous support services before finding one that works for them. We hope that this campaign encourages men to take that first step. Whether you’re struggling with issues around money, mental ill-health, work, relationships or addiction – Doing it Tough has a range of support and services designed to meet men wherever they are.”
Dave, who shared his story of addiction in the campaign, said “I knew I needed support but when you are in the midst of it all, it was hard to know where to turn. Having a resource like Doing It Tough can make all the difference in moments like that.”
Men’s Health Week serves as an important opportunity to highlight the importance of men’s health, and to promote and support the health and wellbeing of men in our local communities. The theme for 2023 is “Healthy Habits”.
Doing It Tough was developed with guidance from an expert Advisory Group of researchers, health professionals and men with lived experience of suicide to ensure it reaches the right people, in the right way. The website is funded by NSW Health under the NSW Government’s Towards Zero Suicides initiative.
To learn more about the campaign and explore the resources available on the Doing It Tough website, please visit doingittough.org/i-found-support-that-worked
ENDS.
To get help 24/7, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467. If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, phone 000 for emergency services.
Help to report about suicide safely is available online: Go to https://mindframe.org.au/
Media enquiries:
Amelia Hew 0410 591 134 or ameliah@suicidepreventionaust.org
Tom Anderson 0409 718 271 toma@suicidepreventionaust.org