GORH host Mindful with Matt Runnalls

Great Ocean Road Health (GORH) is offering people the opportunity to hear from one of Australia’s foremost mental health advocates at upcoming event Mindful with Matt Runnalls.

After struggling with mental illness for much of his early life and losing several friends to suicide, Mr Runnalls has used his experiences with mental health problems to help others.

Mr Runnalls is now the founder and chief executive officer of MindfullAus. In the past seven years, he has delivered more than 400 speeches and keynote workshops about mental health, across Australia and internationally to America and Canada.

Mr Runnalls said his aim is to prevent others from experiencing the loss and hardships he has endured.

“I just want to teach people what I wish I would have known growing up. I know if I would have been this knowledgeable not only about mental health and suicide prevention but about equipping myself with strategies and disciplines for well-being,” he said.

“I could have potentially still been able to share laughs and memories with those mates I’ve lost. I know personally that my life would have been a lot different, and now I have the opportunity to ensure that the next generation doesn’t walk in the unknown like I did.”

The workshop is open to people of all ages and will be livestreamed, including a questions and answers section at the end.

The workshop will begin at 3pm on Sunday, November 8.

To register for the event, head to greatoceanroadhealth.hippomedia.net.au.

* Support is available for those who may be distressed by phoning Lifeline 13 11 14, the Suicide Call Back Line on 1800 659 467, Mensline on 1300 789 978 or the Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.