Wall of Sound: Up Against The Wall ‘A Discussion About Mental Health’

Mental Health. Suicide. Depression. Anxiety. A long time ago those words would scare even the strongest person away from engaging in conversation with someone struggling with their own mental-wellbeing or force someone to close up and hide behind their own brick walls unable to discuss their issues, however, now, the awareness for mental health issues and struggles hasn't been as thought provoking and supportive as it is today in 2018.

Today, July 20th 2018, we are remembering Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington who took his own life one year ago at 41 years of age, a decision which shocked not only those closest to him but his vast array of fans across the world. A decision which instantaneously caused the world to ask one question to ourselves and those around us, are you ok?

In this special edition of Wall of Sound: Up Against the Wall podcast host Paul 'Browny' Brown creates his own 'Discussion About Mental Health' and takes a look back at the year following Chester's passing, including how his wife Talinda swore an oath to #MakeChesterProud by becoming the Executive Advisor for the Campaign to Change Direction and co-founder of 320 Changes Direction, an organisation created to change the way we look at and address mental health, especially the Five Signs to look out for. Check out more here.

Browny also shares his own personal battles with mental health and how turning to music was only a minor step in getting his life back on track. He also speaks to Don't Fret Club founder Jess Hope about her podcast series and mission to change the way mental health issues are addressed within the music industry, especially with bands/musicians on tour who struggle with being alone and the everyday challenges they face whilst trying to make it in one of the toughest, most unforgiving industries.

And Papa Roach frontman Jacoby Shaddix also joins in on the conversation, explaining how he overcame his struggles with drug addiction, alcoholism and substance abuse in the early years when he was fighting his own demons and how that battle then became the lyrical content to some of the band's biggest songs. He also shares an anecdotal story about how he met up with Chester Bennington weeks prior to his passing, discusses his behaviour at the time and why you should never assume anyone is fine, despite the warning signs surrounding them.

We hope this podcast can (and will) create more discussions around mental health awareness and suicide prevention in Australia and around the world for our international listeners.

If you or anyone you know needs help with their own mental well-being call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or find your closest Suicide Prevention/Crisis Support Organisation on Google...

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