An afternoon of live music next Monday will launch the Cut the Silence campaign, which aims to get men talking about their mental health.
The event at the Macedon Railway Hotel will also mark the beginning of Men’s Health Week in the Macedon Ranges.
The campaign features a series of videos of actor and local resident, Shane Jacobson, in conversation at a Romsey barbershop with other high-profile Macedon Ranges men.
A number of local barbers have signed up to the initiative, which has involved them taking part in a half-day suicide prevention training course helping the business owners to recognise the first signs that someone might be feeling overwhelmed or struggling with their mental health.
Participating barbershops have also been provided with information to guide customers to support services.
The initiative recognises barbershops as one of those places in the community where men feel comfortable opening up.
“The participating barbers are not expected to take the place of a counsellor,” says Lauren Tyrrell, health promotion team leader at Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health.
“The idea is that they are equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence to have conversations with others who might be showing signs of not coping.”
The lineup for the afternoon includes Karise Eden who came to prominence as the first winner of The Voice Australia; Paper Jane, a four-piece Americana roots band and Jarrod Shaw, blues singer and guitarist with a unique playing style and powerful voice.
Organised by Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group and Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, with funding assistance from North Western Primary Health Network, the event will be an opportunity to gather as a community and begin the conversation around how we can support each other through difficult times.
Information on counselling and other mental health services will be available and trained support workers will be present.
The Cut the Silence musical extravaganza takes place on Monday June 13 from 1pm to 5pm. Tickets cost $15, $5 of which will go to MRSPAG, and includes finger food; children under 18 are free. For tickets go to https://cut-the-silence.eventbrite.com.au .
