Let’s honour Ian Thorpe’s courage by doing something today

14 July 2014

Last night’s Michael Parkinson interview with swimming great Ian Thorpe was an outstanding step forward in the conversation about mental health in Australia. On behalf of the team at ReachOut.com, I want to thank Ian for his courage to talk about his mental health battles with such candour. The positive impact that will result from Ian’s eloquent discussion of his struggles will be felt by young people right around the country today. 

If you were similarly inspired by last night’s interview, I wanted to provide a range of ways you can continue the conversation and do something for young Australians who need help. At ReachOut.com we believe in practical, ‘hands-on’ ways to look after your mental health and the wellbeing of the important people in your life. This pragmatic approach not only applies to the young Australians who visit our service, but to everyone who cares about young people.

Here’s some things you can do right now to keep the momentum going: 

1. Share this ReachOut.com fact sheet on coming out

2. Post this information about self-help for depression

3. Email these stress strategies to young people you know

4. Talk about bullying with your family tonight

5. Call at least 1 young person you know today and remind them that they’re loved

 In addition, if there are young people you know going through tough times, please let them know that help exists: 

1. For a safe and anonymous online service there’s ReachOut.com

2. For face to face counselling there’s headspace

3. For telephone support there’s Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 & Lifeline 13 11 14

Through his bravery to publicly reveal his mental health challenges last night, Ian Thorpe has sparked a conversation that we’re obliged to continue. Let’s honour Ian’s courage by doing something practical for young Australians today. 

About Jonathan NicholasJonathan Nicholas is the CEO of ReachOut.com. One of the most prominent and passionate advocates for the mental health of young people in Australia, Jonathan was a member of the original team that launched the ReachOut.com service in 1998. With a background in child psychology and human rights, Jonathan has provided training to Indonesia on the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and co-authored a report for UNICEF on the situation of children and women living in Cambodia. Amongst many industry contributions, Jonathan is a current Board member of the Mental Health Council of Australia (MHCA) and the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE).