A Mandurah teenager’s video aimed at encouraging his friends to seek help if they are struggling with bullying or depression was made after he lost three of his mates to suicide in two months.
Damo Martin, a 17-year-old studying at Halls Head College, said he wanted to spread awareness in the community, especially among young people, that help was available.
“The video I made was aimed at teenagers going though high school who may be suffering from bullying at school or online bullying,” he said.
“I wanted to show that it's not acceptable, but if you are suffering from it and you feel depressed to go and get help, or if someone you know does not seem themselves, to get them help.”
The video tells the story of a young man, played by Damo, who receives bullying text messages and who is bullied at school.
He contemplates suicide, but then realises there are steps he can take to find help.
Damo said the video took him a week to write and plan, and then another two weeks to film, with the support and permission from his school.
“Besides spreading awareness about a major issue in not just our community but others, I really wanted to turn a big negative into something a little positive,” he said.
“From an issue that affected me, I decided to take the opportunity to try and spread awareness.”
Eleanor Britton, from GP down south, which runs a youth suicide prevention program, said it was important that teenagers took ownership of the suicide prevention message.
“It’s hugely important in the current climate that we are aware of these issues and talk about them and don’t hide behind silence,” she said.
“It’s absolutely fantastic that young people are standing up and saying enough is enough and raising the issue around suicide prevention themselves.”
Damo said he had already been contacted by a 14-year-old Melbourne boy who said: “I watched your video and it made think about one of my friends who I think may need help, thanks”.
“That gave me a very good feeling inside,” Damo said.
So far the video has had more than 7000 views.
Support is available by calling Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800, Lifeline on 131 114, or beyondblue on 1300 22 46 36.