Triple M’s hosts have been told to stay home on Monday and won’t be heard on air.
The unusual move is part of what the radio network is calling “Triple M’s No Talk Day” which is in support of Beyond Blue.
From 6am to 6pm on Monday, July 1, there will be no breakfast or drive shows on Triple M Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane. There’ll be no ads, no news and no traffic reports.
Instead the station will air 12 hours of music and messages of support from well-known artists in an attempt to encourage men and women to talk to their mates, family or a colleague about mental health.
“As a network that talks to millions of Aussie men each day we feel as though it’s our responsibility to continue to encourage these men to be more aware of, not only their own feelings, but that of those around them,” the Head of Triple M, Mike Fitzpatrick, told news.com.au.
The move will cost the radio network thousands in advertising revenue, but Mr Fitzpatrick isn’t concerned.
“We feel this is a cause that is important enough to take an impact on revenue for,” he told news.com.au.
“We’ve planned ahead and worked with our clients to minimise the impact and ensure all campaigns are delivered.
“This could be one of the most important things we ever do, by encouraging our listeners to have a conversation that could save a life. You can’t put a figure on that.”
According to Beyond Blue, 65,000 people will attempt suicide in Australia this year. Eight will die every day and six of those will be men.
Listeners have applauded the radio network for its bold move, flooding social media with messages of support.
“This is ever so real for me,” one person wrote on Twitter. “So many times I could have become just another statistic but I always wanted to fight on. It can be a very long and lonely road. Thank you for doing this. Thank you for encouraging people to talk. Thank you for opening the door to saving lives.”
Another wrote: “It’s an issue that affects so many of us in so many different ways. If it saves 1 life, it has worked magnificently. Way to go getting the conversation started!”
Triple M’s flagship shows, including The Hot Breakfast with Eddie McGuire and Kennedy Molloy, will return to air on July 14 after the two week survey break.
To get advice on how to start a conversation with someone you’re worried about or for more information on depression and anxiety please visit: www.beyondblue.org.au