Torquay coach takes on push up challenge for mental health

A MENTAL health campaign will see over 27,000 Aussies raise money for headspace by completing 3,128 push ups over the course of three weeks – a repetition for each suicide death in 2017.

“The Push Up Challenge” is an annual initiative that aims to lessen the stigma surrounding mental health across the country.

Funds raised from this year’s efforts will go towards youth mental health organisation headspace so that work in promoting self-care and the importance of a healthy mind can be continued.

Cotton On business manager and Torquay Tigers coach Dominic Gleeson said he’s taking part in this year’s challenge to better his understanding of mental health.

“I’ve been somewhat one of the lucky ones, for lack of a better term, and simply don’t know enough about mental health,” Mr Gleeson said.

“Only now being a coach of young men as well as working within a large organisation I’m learning of its ruthlessness and I’m being exposed to the struggles of colleagues, teammates and friends on a daily basis.”

Nick Hudson, founding member of The Push Up Challenge, said the strong correlation between exercise and mental health was a catalyst for the campaign’s establishment.

“This is an opportunity for friends, colleagues or family to come together, have a bit of fun but also educate themselves on the issues impacting so many Australians who live with mental ill-health,” Mr Hudson said.

“Not only will participants get a work-out, but we’ll also send out information throughout the challenge to educate people about mental wellness.”

Headspace chief executive officer Jason Trethowan said the organisation was proud to partner with The Push Up Challenge.

The Push Up Challenge has raised over $1 million for headspace. For more information or to register, visit thepushupchallenge.com.au.

To donate to Dominic Gleeson, visit thepushupchallenge.com.au/donate and search for ‘Dom Gleeson’.

According to Lifeline, suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged between 15 and 44. Men are four times more likely to suicide than women.

If you are struggling with your mental health, help is available. Phone lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit headspace.org.au.