Meats for Mates highlights importance of mateship and conversation in battle against men’s mental health issues.
‘It all starts with a conversation’. It’s a simple action with huge impact in tackling a complex issue.
This was the lasting thought from our inaugural Meats for Mates event at the Brew House. Between the laughs, unbelievable feast (cudos Cotton Tree Meats), cracking beer and entertainment (take a bow Toddy Widdicombe), there was a strong feeling and message of mateship and support.
Statistics show that six Australian men take their own lives every day due to mental health issues. You could ask anyone and they would have a mental health issue story to tell, whether it involves themselves personally or someone they know.
Despite increased awareness, many people, in particular men, still attach a negative stigma to seeking help for mental health problems.
This hard to shake stigma is why conversation has become such an important tool in battling this issue. While it is not a complete solution, a conversation is, at a minimum, an excellent starting point in helping people to seek necessary help.
If the conversation is initiated by a trusted mate, a bloke suffering from mental health problems is far more likely to open up and begin their journey to recovery.
Check up on three mates right now, you never know what could be happening beneath the surface - seriously do it!
We are stoked to report that the event raised over $10,000 for four amazing local charities that are doing outstanding work in the mental health space, including:
Overall, it was a truly special day that drove home some really crucial messages. A big cheers to everyone who attended and a special shout out to our guest speakers:
- Matt Golinski
- Adam Sellars
- Mike Benson
Check out the highlights video here!