Cut The Silence was a local campaign to get men talking.
As part of this campaign we filmed a series of short conversations in a local barbershop with some some high profile Macedon Ranges men about looking after themselves or a mate who is struggling.
Five of our local barbers participated in Conversations for Life Training and have information to guide customers to help if they want it.
Our Barbers
Cut The Silence recognises that barbershops have traditionally been one of the few spaces in which men can talk about how they are feeling and coping – or not. Five local businesses signed up to the campaign to act as gateways to professional support services for men at risk of experiencing a mental health crisis.
The barbers received training on how to identify and talk to customers who appear to be struggling with their mental health. While they do not take the place of counsellors or mental health professionals, they have information and resources to guide customers towards help if they want it.
Help out a mate
There is lots of information out there for you or someone you might know who is going through a tough time.
A massive thank you to our friends at RUOKAY and Movember for developing this information to help get more men in our community talking.
1. Know the signs – tips on what you should look out for
2. How to prepare yourself for a tough conversation
You can’t fix someone else’s problems, but you can be there for them. Sometimes listening is the most helpful thing you can do. You won’t make things worse by asking someone how they’re doing. Keep in mind that it’s always worth preparing yourself before you start the conversation.
Source: Movember - Men's Health
Source: Movember Website Resources _ Posters -2.pdf