As a global or local community we shouldn’t need to highlight the importance of mental health via a unique day or on-going campaign as the value of mental health should be obvious to all.

I’m a father, a teacher, an educational consultant, a professional athlete and a public speaker.I’m the victim of self-doubt. Ego.Ignorance.And indifference.

But I’m also the beneficiary of a mentor. Of real friendships,education and exposure.Constant exposure.

I believe our mental health is directly influenced by our ability to communicate and build quality relationships, given that positive mental health is supported by the ability to communicate consistently and effectively on both an external and internal level. Quality non-transactional relationships provide the foundation from which individuals can develop and prosper through connection (and appreciation). 

The same is true of groups of people: 

Classrooms. Office spaces. Worksites. 

Lecture theatres. Studios. Clubrooms.  

All function at a higher level when the value of relationships is properly communicated,appreciated and constantly refined with care and creativity.  

Unfortunately, the reality is that mental health isn’t seen as being that important, that is, until it directly affects you.I was affected at a young age, cutting my right arm in half as a 17-year-old,the direct result of poor self-esteem,choices and a shopfront window.My appreciation of the importance of my mind and its thinking forever changed as a result.

Whilst during my AFL football and teaching careers,I was a exposed to countless examples of positive and negative mental health daily.

As a father, I’ve watched my own children struggle with adult-driven anxieties.And as a professional speaker I’ve worked with people who get it and those that don’t-until it’s too late-in both educational and corporate settings. 

The effects of positive and negative mental health are clear to me. 

I have chosen to make optimising positive mental health my personal & professional business. By creatively sharing stories, asking thoughtful questions and listening carefully to what is and isn’t said,business has been booming. 

Particularly the business of being a father,a friend and being kind to yourself.