A men’s mental health advocate, Alan Thorpe, is set to embark on a 90-kilometre walk from Ballarat to Geelong to raise awareness for men’s mental health, leading up to the fourth annual Men’s Mental Health Family Fun Day on December 21, 2023. This event aims to highlight the challenges men face regarding mental health, a cause close to Thorpe’s heart following his own experiences.
Previously, Thorpe completed a nearly 800-kilometre walk to Canberra, raising over $80,000 for mental health services. His advocacy is deeply rooted in his personal journey, which includes overcoming significant hardships such as the breakdown of his marriage, struggles with homelessness, and battling mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
The Purpose Behind the Walk
Thorpe’s upcoming trek is not merely an exercise in endurance; it is a mission to raise awareness of the alarming statistics surrounding men’s mental health. He emphasizes the critical issue of suicide, stating, “Every three hours in Australia, a man takes his own life. It’s a bigger tragedy than road tolls, and it’s an emergency that needs to be addressed urgently.”
Reflecting on his journey, Thorpe shared how walking has played a transformative role in his life. “Every day can be a tough time; walking is just how I push through it,” he expressed. His commitment to this cause stems from his belief that physical activity can significantly enhance mental well-being. “Within a couple of months of starting to walk, I was doing 20 km-plus, and I thought, yeah, I’m going to walk to raise awareness for men’s mental health.”
The Men’s Mental Health Family Fun Day
The Men’s Mental Health Family Fun Day, organized by local advocate Troy Koerntjes, promises to be a vibrant event. Scheduled for December 21 at the Geelong Showgrounds, it aims to unite families, community groups, and mental health advocates. The day will feature carnival rides, market stalls, live music, and various entertainment activities, alongside a bike, car, and ute show.
This family-oriented event is designed to foster community connection while promoting awareness about mental health issues affecting men. For more information about the event, attendees can visit geelongaustralia.com.au/events.
Thorpe’s efforts and the upcoming event highlight the importance of addressing mental health, encouraging open discussions, and providing support. By sharing his story and walking for change, Thorpe continues to inspire others to prioritize their mental well-being.
