Out From Under 2016
Mental illness has long been stigmatised and misunderstood, but it is now slowly gaining recognition and acceptance as a common, indiscriminate condition that takes many forms and is highly treatable. Yet, there are still communities in which the subject is bewildering and taboo – one such being the entertainment industry.
Out From Under is an initiative that aims to help workers in this industry, as well as their family and friends, identify and help deal with depression, self-harm and destructive thoughts and behaviour that can result from the particular stresses of being in the arts segment.
Producer Matthew Henderson created the event last year after feeling despair at “seeing people struggling and not knowing what the right thing to do was”. He has lost many friends and seen many more dissolve into helplessness, allowing their careers to disintegrate and self-medicating through substance abuse.
The statistics for the entertainment industry are alarming, with indicators for depression, anxiety and self-harm being significantly higher than those for the general population. Henderson attributes this to a number of factors including the nature of the work being emotional, unpredictable, itinerant, isolating, open to public scrutiny, and so much more.
The purpose of the event is to raise awareness and encourage people to speak out and seek support.
“We just needed to get the conversation [started] – if that led to one person not self harming or one person reaching out for help, then I feel like we’ve achieved our mission,” explained Henderson.
Performers include some of Australia’s best talent. Asked about the tone of the evening, Henderson says it will be mixed:
“There’ll be definitely moments when hairs on the back of your neck stand up. I’ve seen a rehearsal with Silvie Paladino performing and that is ridiculously entertaining… Debra Byrnes’ performance is quite remarkable.”
Also on stage will be two esteemed psychologists who will discuss issues and answer questions. It will be a remarkable and moving night. (RB)
Nov 21, 7:30pm. York Theatre, Seymour Centre, cnr Cleveland St and City Rd, Chippendale. $55. Tickets & info: www.seymourcentre.com
For help and support ring Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
BY RITA BRATOVICH
