Shane Hayes

Every conversation matters

First off, thanks to everyone taking part, supporting the cause, checking in on their mates and helping make conversations around mental health more normal. This is the first time I’ve done something like this and honestly, I wasn’t sure about putting myself out there or asking people to donate. But doing it has made me realise how lucky I am to have good people around me.

I had a pretty rough upbringing — housing commission, absent parents, violence and drug abuse, and a lot more that comes with that lifestyle. It forces you to grow up pretty quickly. Looking back now, I know I’m lucky to have come out the other side. There were definitely times life could’ve gone a completely different way.

As hard as some of those experiences were, they gave me perspective and helped me understand people who are struggling mentally or emotionally. That’s a big reason why this cause means something to me. I think it’s important to be honest about where you come from and to let people know they’re not alone in what they’re dealing with.

I work FIFO as a mechanical Pipefitter, I’ve seen firsthand how easy it is for mental health to get pushed aside in high-pressure environments, especially for men. Long hours, time away from home and the pressure to just “get on with it” can wear people down pretty quickly.

I’m a big believer in checking in on your mates, speaking up when things aren’t right, and creating an environment where blokes feel comfortable talking openly without being judged.

Your upbringing might shape you, but it doesn’t have to define who you become. Cheers to everyone supporting the cause — every conversation genuinely fucking matters

20 Hours of Silence for Youth Mental Health.

I’m taking on the 20 Hours for 20Talk Challenge which will see me sitting in a 2×2 metre square in a warehouse, alongside 400 other participants, with no talking and no technology for 20 hours. All I’ll have are the essentials I bring with me: a chair, sleeping mat, journal, water, and food. No distractions.