Around the nation, many Aussie’s are either working from home, socially isolating or in quarantine. Even though our circumstances are all different, the one thing we have in common is that we are experiencing social isolation to some degree - and for most of us, it’s not something we’re used to.
So, for those of you who might be struggling a little with the loneliness, podcasts can be an excellent (and cost effective) way to fill the silence whilst educating yourself or keeping up-to-date with topical information. The other beauty to podcasts is that you can listen to them anywhere, anytime. Whether it be in the car, while you’re out walking the dog, preparing dinner or even in the shower (although we don’t recommend getting your device wet) - your options are limitless.
So, to get you well on your way, we’ll be doing the groundwork over the next few days to gather a collection of the best podcasts around, by each topic. To kick-off, we’ve decided that mental health is most likely top of mind for a number of you given the current circumstances.
Here’s our top picks for great mental health podcasts:
The imperfects by The Resilience Project
The concept of The Resilience Project (TRP) was conceived during an impromptu chat in a small Melbourne cafe between the Founder of TRP, Hugh van Cuylenburg, and renowned Aussie Comedian Ryan Shelton. The idea came about after Ryan had opened up about his journey to date and all the challenges faced as an emerging comedian. This ‘imperfection’, even for a successful happy, loveable character like Ryan reminded Hugh about how no one in society truly lives a ‘perfect’ life, not even a comedian.
What to expect? An excellent collection of open conversations that delve into the lives of interesting guests like musician Missy Higgins, AFL star Jack Watts and entrepreneur Erin Deering (to name a few), where the discussions of their imperfect lives are had.
Where to listen?
The TradeMutt story all began on a construction site in Brisbane when Dan Allen and Ed Ross (Co-Founders) turned up to the first day on the job. The two quickly bonded over their common larakanism and love of the movie Dumb and Dumber. But, things changed forever when one of Dan’s best mates tragically took his own life. It was out of this devastating news that the TradeMutt mission truely began. The social enterprise exists to encourage conversations around mental health amongst blue-collared workers who are twice as likely to commit suicide than the average employee.
What to expect? A weekly dose of genuine, honest and down-to-earth conversation around men’s mental health by two blokes that have experienced first hand the flow on effect suicide has. These conversations are based around interviewing local tradesmen and women, businessmen and friends of the duo on their experiences with mental health and their own challenges and journeys.
Where to listen?
It Ain’t Weak to Speak by LIVIN
LIVIN was founded on the sunny Gold Coast, Queensland by co-founders and childhood friends Sam Webb and Casey Lyons. This mental health non-profit was established in honour of their dear friend Dwayne Lally who like many others took his life after suffering in silence from a mental illness. Sam and Casey aim to connect, support and encourage one another to talk about their feelings and challenges because “It Ain’t Weak to Speak”.
What to expect? The It Ain’t Weak to Speak podcast has only just recently begun, but you can expect an emotional discussion around how LIVIN began, their mission, mental health and what they have planned for the future.
Where to listen?
Please remember that the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak will affect all people differently. If you need someone to talk to, the following services are available:
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636
Headspace on 1800 650 890
ReachOut at au.reachout.com
Care Leavers Australasia Network (CLAN) on 1800 008 774