Yahoo News Australia has partnered with Lifeline Australia to launch a new content series, which aims to raise awareness of mental health and the “real-life struggles of Australians”.
According to Yahoo, the new ‘What’s Up?’ series shares original stories from everyday Australians who have been affected by mental illness.
From the “heartbreaking” to the “inspiring”, featured stories include actor Nick Brack’s struggles with alcohol addiction, mates in construction who are dealing with mental health, and a mother’s journey through depression, among others.
The series will also feature first-hand stories from Lifeline’s 13 11 14 telephone Crisis Supporters who will offer advice on how to support others struggling with mental wellbeing.
The editorial feature will run across the Yahoo News Australia website until the end of March.
Euan Black, head of news at Yahoo, commented on the series: “There’s never been a more important time to focus on the subject of mental health. After such a tumultuous year we wanted to bring to light important, relatable stories to support readers who might be going through a similar experience.
“Yahoo News has always been about providing real stories that matter to everyday Australians and the ‘What’s Up?’ series couldn’t be more in line with that. It’s time to break the stigma and tell the truth about mental health.”
Rachel Bowes, head of crisis services at Lifeline, added: “Over the past year the Lifeline 13 11 14 telephone line has been receiving more calls than at any other time in our 58 year history. There are currently over 3,000 people in crisis reaching out to us every day. That’s a call every 30 seconds.
“More people need assistance than ever before and we are determined to ensure the community knows that through COVID-19 and beyond, our services are here to ensure that no person in Australia has to face their darkest moments alone.”
“One in five Australians will be affected by mental health this year. So, when Yahoo News Australia approached us for the series, we were delighted with the opportunity to speak directly to almost 3 million Australians. We hope that this series will help get people to the support they need, when they need it.”
