Tackling mental health stigma.
Desire Media, Spark Foundry and UnLtd are urging Australians to speak up about their mental health in a campaign titled ‘Heart on my sleeve.’
Heart on My Sleeve is a national movement and not-for-profit.
“More than 80% of Australians who have experienced mental ill-health have also reported stigma or discrimination, a key reason many still don’t feel equipped or enthusiastic about proactively speaking up,” said Heart on My Sleeve founder Mitch Wallis.
“While we’ve made huge strides with campaigns that encourage us to check in on others, many people still hesitate to open up – even when they’re asked.
“You shouldn’t have to wait for someone to ask if you’re struggling. Saying “I’m not OK” is one of the strongest things you can do.”
One in two Australians experiencing mental illness in their lifetime, burnout escalating at record rates, and mental ill-health often shrouded in silence, according to Heart on My Sleeve.
Campaign supporters include media personality David Koch, NRL star Kieran Foran, TV star Barry Du Bois, actor Sharon Johal, iron man Guy Leech, TV personality Jad Nehmetallah, surfer Layne Beachley, reporter Richard Reid and journalist, broadcaster and author Antoinette Lattouf.
More than 21 media owners are also supporting the campaign with more than $900k in pro-bono media value across TV, Out-of-Home, Radio, Cinema, BVOD and Digital Display.
The media partners include Channel Nine/9Now, Channel Ten/Paramount, Channel Seven/7Plus, Foxtel, SBS, ARN, Nova, SCA, NewsCorp, Mamamia, The Guardian, Teads, Yahoo, Val Morgan Digital/Cinema/Outdoor, S&J, QMS, Cartology, JCDecaux, oOh!media, Scentre Group and Jolt Media.
“We're beyond thrilled to be partnering with HOMS to drive mass awareness for such an important and meaningful movement - one that’s all about paying it forward and breaking the silence around topics that should never be taboo,” said Spark Foundry client director Janice Tsang.
“The passion and authenticity the HOMS team brings to this campaign, right down to everyday conversations, makes this collaboration not just valuable, but truly inspiring.”
