Mental health discussions will be at the front of the agenda in workplaces and school on June 21 while fresh air flows around the lower half of Tasmanian bodies.
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Well-known Tasmanian charity SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY launched its "Shorts Day" on Wednesday morning, encouraging Tasmanians to wear shorts to work and school on the winter solstice - the shortest day of the year.
SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY founder Mitch McPherson said he hoped people would recognise others wearing shorts which would consequently lead to them engaging in conversations about mental health.
"We want Tasmanians to wear shorts on the shortest day of the year to work or to school, or host a fundraiser. Together, braving the cold and braving the conversation around mental health," he said.
"We created Shorts Day to stand unified in breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide.
"This is an opportunity for us to show the community that it might be a bit uncomfortable to be cold, just as it might be uncomfortable to start a conversation about mental health. But 'Shorts Day' represents an opportunity for us to do it together, as a community."
Mr McPherson said fundraising was a big part of the day as well and encouraged interested parties to visit the SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY website for more details.
Mr McPherson launched the charity after his younger brother Ty died by suicide in 2013.
Since, he has advocated strongly on the merits of talking about mental health and suicide and has been a powerful voice in the Tasmanian community.
Need help?
- Lifeline 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
- Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
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