New Partnership Fires Up Men’s Mental Health Chats

It is a very sad fact that in 2020, 2,384 Australian men took their own lives, representing around three-quarters of all lives lost to suicide. Moreover, Men living in rural and regional areas are twice more likely to end their life by suicide compared to their urban counterparts.

Despite these figures, only one in four men say they would be likely to seek help from dedicated mental health services when they are doing it tough.

For this reason, Lifeline Australia and Barbeques Galore are launching a new collaboration to take action and turn the humble backyard barbie into the opportunity to have life-saving conversations.

Angus McDonald, Barbeques Galore CEO, said that the barbeque makes a great setting to check in with each other and have meaningful conversations.

“Standing around the barbeque can be a safe space to talk, to listen and to understand. It is a place where you can feel safe to let down your guard and connect with those you trust and care about most. While a barbeque’s sizzle sounds in the background, it’s the perfect time to reach out and ask for help, confide or seek support,” said Mr McDonald.

Colin Seery, Lifeline Australia CEO, agreed that standing around the grill offers a great chance to connect, listen and support each other without fear of judgement or shame.

“This is all about helping people make that first step, which is often the hardest one. All it takes is ten minutes to cook, ten minutes to chat, and ten seconds to call.

“This partnership with Barbeques Galore is all about breaking down the stigma around asking for help – and that can be as simple as having a yarn over a snag.

“Lifeline is here 24/7 for anyone who needs extra support, and we have phone, web chat and text crisis supporters there to make sure no-one has to face their darkest moments alone,” Mr Seery said.

Lifeline is Australia’s leading suicide prevention service, operating the 13 11 14 telephone line within 41 centres around the nation. The service expects to respond to over one million requests for support this year, creating an average of 120 safety plans to keep a person experiencing suicidal ideation safe every day.

• Topics:

• Mental Health & Wellbeing