all kilt… all year…
breaking the stigma of talking about mental health
From January 1st, 2020, I wore a kilt everyday, everywhere, with virtually no exceptions, for the entire year. Now in 2021, whilst I successfully completed the year in a kilt, I feel there is still work to do so I’ve kept going into my second year.
The goal remains the same
I’m doing it in the hope that it can start conversations, discuss some of the causes, inspire positive action, and reduce the stigma surrounding mental ill health.
Over this time, in addition to wearing a kilt, I will be also be entering in various physical events to do my own experiment with the effect of exercise on my own mental health, speaking with whomever wants to talk, and generally trying to be a kind, positive influence on those around me.
we need to talk…
Talking about mental health should not be taboo.
According to the Black Dog Institute, one in five Australians will experience a mental health issue in a 12 month period. Beyond Blue states that an estimated 45 per cent of people will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime. Suicide rates in Australia average around 8 lives lost everyday, which is over 3000 each year.
It affects you, me or many of the people you interact with on a daily basis. That’s an awfully large number of us.
And yet, many people feel the stigma long associated with mental illness, keeping it to themselves, battling through in silence, and not seeking the help they need. Others don’t understand the signs of mental health issues and their behaviour can unknowingly exacerbate the problems someone else is facing.
There is no one answer. Some will move through the phase and rarely experience another; others face it every day, for their whole lives either in themselves,or through a loved one. Some need medication, others do exercise and activity, some discussion with family and friends (or complete strangers) and ,tragically, far too many take their own lives.
There is no magic wand. No one size fits all solution.
But we need to talk…
places to start talking
We are lucky to have a lot of resources available to us. From your local GP and mental health professionals, to national organisations with online tools to assist if you or someone you love is experiencing
ways to help or support
It all begins with an idea, but as that comes to fruition I realise how futile it could be without help and support.
Perhaps the best way to do this is by looking at your own mental health and that of those around you. Start talking… make it normal to discuss, just as you would if you had a physical illness. Take the time to learn about mental illness, be understanding of those who are suffering, and seek help if needed.
If you also wish to help & support in other ways or donate to assist me in this kilted year, please get in touch or head to my gofundme page, soon to be linked below.
why the kilt?
The kilt started as a way of honouring my Scottish heritage. I didn’t then know it would give me a confidence and courage I don’t usually have and quickly became part of my identity. It was also an incredible conversation starter and what would ultimately start me on this journey.
the weird looking bloke in the kilt
A little about me; a man silly enough to think this was a good idea…
(and, no, it’s wasn’t a bet).
journal
Over the course of the year(s), I’ll be keeping a journal of my thoughts, feelings and experiences.
Never having blogged before, it’s unlikely to hit the New York Times Best Sellers list, but it will be an open, honest and candid discussion of mental health, and what happens during this project.
I’ve been writing more sporadically of late, but I will continue writing when I’m in the head space to be able.