Motivational speaker Anthony Hart will bring his story of how he changed his life at an event in Millicent on Friday night.
Presented by the Wattle Range Suicide Prevention Network, the advocate and author will address crowds at the Millicent Civic and Arts Centre and discuss steps to improve mental health.
Mr Hart said the idea for the four steps came from his own experiences in managing his mental health, after he made an attempt on his own life in 2003.
“These steps were essential to my recovery and opening up to others about my journey.”
Mr Hart said his talks focused on heavy topics, but he aimed to bring lightness and humour to his presentations.
“People will definitely be leaving feeling inspired and as an R U OK? ambassador I go through the steps on how to reach out to friends and family and then how to follow up as well.”
Wattle Range Suicide Prevention Network member Rob Francis said the talk was important for people going through their own challenging journey, as well as people who want to help those close to them.
“I personally have not experienced struggles with my mental health, however I chose to join the network to help others,” Mr Francis said.
“It’s about recognising the signs and learning how to reach out for help.
“With Anthony, it has just been an amazing transformation from his low point to now.
“The fact that he has chosen to help others through public speaking is incredible.”
Wattle Range Suicide Prevention Network member and mayor Des Noll said Mr Hart’s presentation was in line with the organisation’s ethos of providing support and information to the community on mental health and
suicide.
“This information will be providing education on how to act if you believe someone close to you is thinking of taking their own life and it can provide others with information on how to reach out if they do not think they can cope,” Mr Noll said.
“It’s about empowering the community with education.”
Mr Hart’s free public talk “Save Our Mates” will start at 7pm and is recommended for an audience 16 years or older.
