Katherine POULSEN

Katherine is taking on the 20-hour challenge to support youth mental health and raise awareness about the importance of prevention.

For those that couldn't stay.

I am so excited to be part of 20 talk. Something positive to do to help emphasise the importance of supporting people through mental health challenges- and create that support.

9 years ago I got a devastating message- that a beautiful, charming and talented young man had taken his own life. I had known him for a number of years, as my student and later as a friend. Before hearing that news I would never have imagined that that was possible.

He was one of the strong, stoic types. I had a nickname for him - GI Joe, because of that tough exterior. I suppose it is a very typical situation- the strong ones often "holding it together " way too tight until they cannot hold any more.

I hope that a new normal can emerge, sans the stigmas of the past, where it becomes more acceptable to find support and that as a society we can recognise when those around us need help. But most importantly that those in need feel justified in seeking help, are encouraged to do so, and find the solace they require to surmount the many challenges that life throws their way.

Make a voice teacher quiet for 20 hours!

Mental health is a vitally Important consideration in our current society. I have personally lost too many wonderful beings due to mental health conditions. There is still stigma connected to mental health

conditions and seeking help for them. I believe that the stigma is lessening but it has not disappeared.

I'm hoping that some of my former students and a few of my friends might enjoy me having to be quiet for 20 hours. Make me do it for others mental health!