Advocating for mental health awareness and support
I recently lost my sister Mina who took her own life, she was only 21 years old. She was my best friend and the only
person I could truly talk to. I still have so many things to say, share, and ask … and now I can’t.
She was a very smart, colourful, hardworking, loving and supportive part of my family. Mina was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and depression in 2021. Like many people, Mina had her bad days, which could sometimes unravel into weeks or even months due
to her mental health issues. According to Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand statistics, in 2021/2022 there were 538 deaths caused by suicide in Aotearoa.
Suicide and mental health have been a big problem in Aotearoa; based on yearly statistics, young Māori men are at significant risk. Following Mina’s passing, I would like to raise awareness around the impacts of mental illness and support initiatives like I am Hope and Gumboot Friday which provide support in the mental health space.
To raise awareness, I have committed to running 5 km every day in the month of June (starting on Mina’s birthday, which is the 1st of June).
I have started a Give a Little page to enable people to support this kaupapa; all funds will go directly to the Gumboot
Friday fund, which provides funding all over Aotearoa for counselling to youth aged from 5 – 24. I have been overwhelmed with the response within the community, I currently have over 20 people committed to running during the month and received fantastic support from businesses like
Evolution Fitness. I would like to thank the people and
businesses who are supporting the cause. Mental illness can have a huge impact on people and families. Support
services such as Gumboot Friday are essential in supporting those needing help. The link to the Give a Little page
is below. Every little bit counts
Words by Te Paea
