Lifeline Asks the Community to Push for Better Mental Health
3,139 push-ups in 24 days for mental health: Are you up for the challenge?
Lifeline Macarthur and Western Sydney is encouraging the community to push for better mental health by participating in Australia’s largest fitness-based mental health initiative, The Push-Up Challenge.
In June, participants will take on 3,139 push-ups across 24 days putting the spotlight on the tragic number of lives lost to suicide in Australia in 2020. Thousands of Australians from all ages and walks of life participate in the free event which engages people in mental health through connection, physical activity and education.
Lifeline Macarthur and Western Sydney CEO Brad Hannagan said, “The Push-Up Challenge is a great opportunity for Australians to talk about their mental health, learn how to best support each other and recognise when they might need to put their own hand up for help. It was great to see the community take on the challenge last year, and we look forward to seeing even more people take part this year.”
“More people than ever before are reaching out to Lifeline for help and support, and the money raised through The Push-Up Challenge will support our services to be there for anyone, anytime, whatever the reason,” he said.
Participants of all ages and abilities can aim for 100% of the daily push-up target, or set their own push-up goal – which can also be done as sit-ups, squats or tailored exercises – with progress tracked through a dedicated app.
“The Push-Up Challenge is all about getting involved in physical and mental health in a fun and unique way and we’d love to have the local community involved,” said Nick Hudson, Founder of The Push-Up Challenge.
Lifeline Macarthur and Western Sydney is encouraging people of all ages, local businesses, gyms, clubs and schools in the area to join Team Lifeline Macarthur and Western Sydney.
You can register for The Push-Up Challenge as an individual, a team, or get your whole workplace, club, gym or school involved. Visit lifelinemws.org.au for more information.
Through phone, text and online chat, Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to listen without judgement to any person in Australia who is feeling overwhelmed, experiencing crisis or longs to be heard. If you, or someone you know, is in need of support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24 hours / 7 days) or chat to a Crisis Supporter at lifeline. org.au (7pm – midnight, 7 nights).
