New campaign launches to help reduce men’s suicide

Murray Primary Health Network (PHN) has launched a new campaign, 'His Story. End Silence. End Suicide', in a bid to reduce the rate of men’s suicide across the North East. 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 CEO Matt Jones says 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." The men featured in the campaign also have lived and living experience – bringing a real, strong and emotive visual to the messaging. 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. If you are in an emergency situation or at immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, contact emergency services on 000. Other support services include Lifeline – 13 13 14 or lifeline.org.au or Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au.

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