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Podcast Page - Banner Title

From Tragedy to Transformation: How Three Mates are Revolutionising Mental Health Conversations

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29th August 2024

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About this episode

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode covers the topic of suicide.

In a world where mental health struggles often go unspoken, three young blokes from Melbourne are turning their personal tragedies into a powerful force for change. Meet Ben, one of the founders of Speak and Share, a charity that's taking Australia by storm with its mission to normalise mental health conversations and prevent suicide.

Born from the depths of their own mental health battles during the COVID lockdown, Ben and his mates, Nathan and Mason, transformed their pain into purpose. After losing a close friend to suicide, experiencing family upheaval, and grappling with grief, these three teachers realised the dire need for open, honest conversations about mental health. What started as a simple Instagram account sharing funny skits with positive mental health messages has now blossomed into a medium-sized charity running programs in schools, sporting clubs, and workplaces across Australia.

But Speak and Share isn't just another mental health organisation. With their iconic sunflower logo symbolising strength and community, and their sought-after merchandise drops, they've created a movement that's as cool as it is crucial. Their approach is all about prevention, starting conversations early, and creating a world where speaking about mental health is as natural as talking about the weather.

Remember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.

Take care,

Catherine

Show notes

Guest Bio
Podcast Guest - Image
Mason de Wit, Nathan Scagliarini and Ben Farish (left to right)

Founders of Speak & Share.

Ben Farish, Nathan Scagliarini and Mason de Wit are qualified teachers but in 2021 they did something not many mates do, they started Speak & Share, a charity whose vision is to become one of Australia’s most impactful Mental Health advocacy organisations that creates everlasting change in our community.

Summary

Key Takeaways:

  • Vulnerability is infectious: Ben emphasises the power of being honest and open about your struggles, which encourages others to do the same.
  • Create comfortable spaces for tough conversations: Whether it's going for a walk or grabbing fish and chips, find environments where people feel at ease to open up.
  • Early intervention is key: Speak and Share focuses on educating young people about mental health strategies before crises occur.
  • Collaboration over competition: Despite the challenges, Ben stresses the importance of mental health organisations working together towards common goals.
  • Self-care is crucial: Even for mental health advocates, maintaining personal wellbeing through activities like exercise, journaling, and podcasts is essential.

Transcript

1
00:00:02,520 --> 00:00:04,030
He felt like he couldn't speak and share.

2
00:00:04,190 --> 00:00:06,910
Being stereotypical male, didn't
want to tell his mates how he was

3
00:00:06,910 --> 00:00:10,090
honestly feeling and felt like he
was always a burden on our friendship

4
00:00:10,099 --> 00:00:11,390
group for having negative feelings.

5
00:00:11,390 --> 00:00:15,179
So he had an episode, it would have been
10 or 11 months before he flew up to

... Read More

Resources

 

  • Follow their journey: Check out their Instagram @speak__share for updates, events, and inspiring content.

 

  • Spread the message: Start conversations about mental health in your community and be the change you want to see.

 

  • My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?

Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.

 

  • Support Services
    If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.

 

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