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Radio Hauraki gets behind men’s mental health with ‘No Talk Day’

Radio Hauraki will be observing a ‘No Talk Day’ on 9 August in association with Movember Foundation New Zealand, following a similar initiative by Triple M Australia.

By removing all advertising, announcers, traffic, weather and news on the day, the radio station will symbolically create space for listeners to talk, by not talking themselves.

Partnering with Movember Foundation NZ, a charity addressing some of the biggest health challenges facing men, Radio Hauraki wants to raise the topic of men’s mental wellbeing with its predominantly male audience.

Radio Hauraki content director Mike Lane says suicide is one of the leading causes of death for young men in New Zealand which is difficult to comprehend.

“But what it does ram home is the need to try and provide the right tools for Kiwi men to support each other, look after each other or just have a conversation. If Hauraki’s No Talk Day instigates just one conversation that makes a difference to someone, it will be worth it.

“Unfortunately, many of us have been touched by suicide and within our own industry, we have lost loved and admired colleagues. We want our No Talk Day to be a reminder to check in with each other, start a conversation or just stay and listen.”

Movember New Zealand country manager Robert Dunne says when Radio Hauraki approached the charity, they were excited to get involved.

“As a charity addressing some of the biggest health challenges facing men, we know an initiative like this can create behavioural change with men which is so hard to do. If No Talk Day saves one man, it will be worthwhile.”

Triple M Australia, who ran a similar initiative, is heartened that it’s resonating across the Tasman.

Head of Triple M Network Mike Fitzpatrick says the widespread community support and feedback they received from the initiative was overwhelming.

“The male suicide epidemic is not isolated by geography and we’re so proud this idea has carried to our brothers and sisters across the Tasman. I applaud Radio Hauraki for shining a spotlight on the problem.”

Where to get help: If you are worried about your or someone else’s mental health, the best place to get help is your GP or local mental health provider. However, if you or someone else is in danger or endangering others, call police immediately on 111.

Or if you need to talk to someone else:
– Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (available 24/7)
– Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)
– Youthline 0800 376 633
– Kidline: 0800 543 754 (available 24/7)
– Whatsup: 0800 942 8787 (1pm to 11pm)
– Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (available 24/7)
– Samaritans: 0800 726 666

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