Kirwan’s message: Let’s talk, Southland
All Black legend Sir John Kirwan was in Lumsden delivering his mental health message to northern Southland students and residents yesterday.
The longstanding Health Promotion Agency advocate, and figurehead for depression and anxiety awareness, delivered twin presentations at Northern Southland College during his visit, promoting his message of recognising mental health issues and reaching out for help when needed.
Principal Mike Newell said Kirwan’s visit was timely and relevant for the college’s students.
‘‘Living in a rural area, we’re aware our community is vulnerable to mental health issues caused by isolation, and that farming, for example, is over-represented in the New Zealand suicide statistics.
‘‘Being such an identifiable character, that’s why John Kirwan has been so powerful in sharing his own struggle, and the message that it’s OK to ask for help.’’
College head boy Reuben Kemna said Kirwan had presented an ‘‘inspirational’’ speech and question session yesterday.
‘‘The whole audience was rapt during the early parts of his presentation, hearing his story, then buzzing with questions afterwards,’’ he said.
‘‘He just came across as a really genuine, humble guy who’s learnt from his life experiences and has plenty of wisdom to share.’’
Kemna agreed Kirwan’s presentation was ‘‘absolutely relevant’’ to his peers, and to the wider Lumsden community.
‘‘We’ve all had personal experiences with friends relating to mental illness,’’ he said.
‘‘You just try and help people how you can, by listening and checking how they are. Luckily, because we’re a relatively small college, we’re all pretty connected anyway.’’
Kirwan said expanding awareness of mental health issues among all New Zealanders was a good start, although there was always more to do.
‘‘I’ve talked today about understanding the impact of stressful life experiences on young people, and how important it is not to dismiss or play down that impact.
‘‘If we can get our youngsters to talk about their mental health and develop effective strategies at this age, we’re on the right track.’’
Newell said the visit would act as a ‘‘springboard’’ for further exploration of the topic at the college.
‘‘We’re very grateful for [Kirwan’s] visit, and will use it to provide important information for our families.’’
See depression.org.nz