Time for dads and sons to talk . . . really talk
ONE in four young Australians suffer from a mental health condition. Young men deal with some of the most serious mental health issues of any group, but tens of thousands are staying silent instead of seeking help.
The nationwide problem has led Headspace to launch a campaign aimed at one of the most influential people for many young men: their fathers.
Due to the stigma surrounding men and mental health, Headspace CEO Jason Trethowan says a lot of things go unsaid between young men and their dads.
“The bond between father and son is very special and we hope that this campaign will start a conversation surrounding mental health and prompt young men to seek help,” he says.
Norlane’s Brandon Dellow, who was diagnosed with anxiety and depression in year 11, says that it is reassuring to know there is someone willing to offer support.
“There have been times when I have had the mindset that I have to deal with my mental illness on my own,” the 20-year-old says.
“However, the first step by simply talking about it with someone you know and trust is the hardest but biggest, life-changing moment.”
Brandon believes that this initiative by Headspace is an important way to start breaking down the stigma surrounding a subject often considered taboo.
“Having such a critical conversation with someone who has been with you since day one is important in a young male’s development.
“It is very important for sons to be able to talk to their fathers, but it is also equally important that the father creates an environment that the son feels comfortable in,” he says.
“The father asking the first question breaks the barrier between the ‘you and I’ and creates an ‘us’ environment.”
Geelong’s Headspace manager Malcolm Scott says the campaign will be beneficial in stopping the stigma and increasing the rates of young men seeking help.
“We want to share the message that men don’t have to feel out of their depth and that there’s room to start a conversation,” he says.
Brandon hopes the campaign sees more male adults become aware and get invested in the issue.
“The statistics clearly indicate that mental health complications are a rising issue. Once a taboo topic in past decades, mental health is a recognised health concern that needs to be openly discussed, with the conversation beginning at home.
“I hope this campaign is a muchneeded push for this to happen.”