Tasmanian mates band together to share messages of support with those battling mental health issues

Two mates affected by mental health issues have found a simple but powerful way to support those having suicidal thoughts. Find out how they are helping people in their darkest hour >>

TWO mates affected by mental health issues have united in a powerful gesture aimed at bringing new hope to people in a time of crisis.

Chase Young, 19, and Justin Smith, 27, created more than 40 laminated cards, each with messages of support to those having thoughts of suicide.

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The two men have displayed them at a location in the Greater Hobart area as a way of reaching out to people in their darkest hour.

“Both us have dealt with mental illness, either if it was close to us or personally,’’ Mr Smith said.

“Personally, last year for me, when I was going through a lot, quotes and inspiration are what got me through my days.”

Justin Smith, 27, and Chase Young, 19, who are friends from Hobart have started ‘The Project of Change' to raise awareness for mental health. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

Mr Young said the thought of potentially saving someone’s life made them feel proud: “We’ve both gone through really bad mental states through the years, and if I read that, I would think there’s people out there that really care,’’ he said.

Mr Young said suicide not only affected the individual, but family and friends, and that people should not feel embarrassed to call a helpline.

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Lifeline Tasmania CEO Debbie Evans said recent statistical modelling conducted by the Brain and Mind Centre at the University of Sydney had predicted the impact from COVID-19.

“It’s concerning that it is predicted that we may see an increase of 25 per cent or more in suicides over the next five years in Australia,’’ she said.

“Bringing the topic into the community and reminding people they are not alone and we are here for them is vitally important.”

The project involves leaving messages of hope around various spots in Hobart. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

Marc Bryant, suicide prevention lead at LivingWorks Australia, said male suicide was a serious public health issue in Australia, with many never coming into contact with a clinical service before they took their own lives.

“With Men’s Health week in June focusing on male suicide, not just awareness but what the community can do, it’s great to see these guys with lived experience wanting to support others going through a traumatic period in their lives,’’ Mr Bryant said.

If you need support, phone Lifeline on 13 11 44.

Other resources available online include Movember, which has just launched a new chat guide for men’s health during COVID-19.

Meanwhile, LivingWorks at www.livingworks.com.au has just launched a new online 90-minute course with suicide first aid skills on responding to someone at risk.

Life in Mind, at lifeinmindaustralia.com.au, is a digital gateway to support programs and research about suicide.