On the Hit Network’s The Jimmy & Nath Show, Jimmy Smith broke down as he talked about the death of golfer Grayson Murray, statistics around men’s mental health and suicide and his own depression and anxiety struggles.
Smith said:
“You wear the mask because it’s nice to pretend you don’t have anxiety and depression.”
“The problem with wearing the mask is that the more you wear it, the more people can’t tell that you’re wearing it.”
“8.6 Australians die every day by suicide. 75% of those who take their own life are male. Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians between the ages of 15 and 44.”
“It needs to stop.”
Smith finished by asking people to check in this week, and every week with each other, saying:
“Everybody is fighting a battle you no nothing about and you would be surprised how many are wearing that mask.”
If you need help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300 224 636 or talk to your GP.