I’m sitting in a 2-metre square box for 20 hours – no technology, no talking – to raise funds for 20Talk, a mental health charity that’s changing the game for young people.
This challenge offers a small glimpse into what it can feel like to live with mental health struggles: isolated, uncomfortable, and left alone with your thoughts. All I’ll have is a journal, a chair, and 20 hours of silence.
So, why am I doing this?
Because I’ve been there.
I’ve faced my own challenging journey with mental health, and I know how lonely and debilitating it can be. But with the unwavering support of my family and friends, my faith, and the help of talking therapy, I’ve been able to keep moving forward – working hard to build a life that feels meaningful and aligned with my values.
I hope this experience is not only a moment of personal reflection and connection with my community, but more importantly, a way to raise awareness and support upstream mental health intervention.
The reality is still confronting:
• Suicide remains the leading cause of death for young people aged 15–44.
• Only 2% of mental health funding goes toward prevention (Mental Health Commission 2022).
That’s why I’m taking on this 20-hour challenge for 20Talk.
20Talk is a youth-led mental health charity making prevention cool, accessible, and relatable. They’re building conversations, communities, and confidence around mental wellbeing.
Your donation helps fund:
• Mental Health First Aid t($300 puts one young person through a 2-day course)
• Expansion of 20Talk’s online resources and 60,000+ strong social media community
• Large-scale interactive events that bring people together to learn, share, and support each other
Together, we can improve mental health literacy, break down stigma, and help young people seek support before they hit crisis point.
Thank you so much for reading, supporting, donating – and for caring.
This challenge might feel uncomfortable, but it’s nothing compared to the pain so many people silently endure every day. If this helps even one person feel less alone, it will be more than worth it.
Please reach out if you ever need and remember “tutto passa” 💙
