The NSW Government has stepped up to help men's mental health charity The Man Walk Australia, by contributing $100,000 to help them deliver their unique program to more men across the state.
The Man Walk Australia seeks to address the risks of mental health issues and suicide by fostering supportive relationships and improving men's physical and mental health through regularly organised physical activity and social interaction.
Participants are encouraged to attend the activities when it suits to be with like-minded men, feel part of a community, and reduce any feelings of isolation and loneliness they may be experiencing.
The charity organises walks across Australia, including at 40 locations in NSW. Many of these locations are regional, stretching from Albury in the south to Tenterfield in the north.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a personal crisis or distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14, 13YARN on 13 92 76, Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.
The NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 is available 24/7 for advice and connection to local specialist mental health services for you or a loved one. You can also call the Transcultural Mental Health Line on 1800 648 911 9am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday.
For more information on The Man Walk Australia, including to find a walk near you or start one of your own, visit themanwalk.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"The Man Walk Australia creates a welcoming environment for men to get together, feel a part of a community and get active.
"This has a positive effect on mental health, so I'm delighted to be able to provide The Man Walk with this additional funding that will help the charity reach even more men in NSW.
"We know men tend to seek help for their mental health at a lower rate than women, especially in traditional settings, so it is important we strengthen community-based supports, such as those offered by The Man Walk.
"By breaking down barriers and creating a positive environment free from stigma or pressure, The Man Walk helps men feel comfortable in accessing support.
"I know The Man Walk offer a walk in my electorate in Bellambi, but they have a range of locations spanning the whole of the state and are looking to add more."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson:
"Suicide is the leading cause of death for men aged 15-44 and we know that loneliness and social isolation are major contributors to mental health distress.
"Community organisations like The Man Walk can offer an essential lifeline for men who are struggling and may not feel confident to reach out for support.
"These organisations provide a positive space for men to spend time together, have regular and healthy conversations and feel less alone."
Quotes attributable to Founder and CEO of The Man Walk Australia Mark Burns:
"The Man Walk charity is extremely grateful for this $100k grant and the long term support from Minister Park and NSW Government.
"The Man Walk has 40 active weekly walk locations across NSW.
"We have thousands of men walking regularly who have taken more 2.3 billion steps towards better mental and physical health while on The Man Walk.
"In just the past 3 months, we have had 5000 man walkers and 300 brand new walkers starting the day with a Man Walk.
"This funding will allow us to support and grow our existing walks, start brand new walk locations across NSW and fund the amazing Mental Fitness for Leaders education program that we offer our Manbassadors and Man Walkers every month.
"We will be providing regular feedback to Minister Park and NSW Health about the positive impact this grant will have on men, their families and their communities.
"A goal of our charity is to collaborate with other organisations like Relationships Australia to offer resources and education programs on managing emotions and decreasing gender violence."
