Community
26 June, 2026
Special screening to reduce stigma
A SPECIAL screening of a film featuring a Lismore resident will be brought to Camperdown next month, with aims to reduce stigma around mental health.
South West Healthcare (SWH) will be screening ‘This Man’s Worth’ at the Camperdown Bowls Club (8 Thornton Street) on Thursday, July 9.
SWH Camperdown and Lismore Community Health director Lauren Patterson said the 40-minute film features the stories of two people who have attempted to end their own lives and the families of two who had succeeded.
“We’re trying to raise awareness and destigmatise mental health and suicide in particular for men and women – not just one or the other,” she said.
“It was screened in Lismore in 2023, and there has always been plans to bring it over here.
“Now’s as good as time as any.
“Mental health is always at the forefront, and suicide doesn’t seem to be going away.
“We want to try and increase awareness and try to get their message out to a wider audience.”
Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed 362 people in outer regional areas took their own lives in 2023, while Lifeline data suggests an estimated 54,000 people have attempted suicide each year.
The film, which has also been screened at the Sydney Film Festival, the Melbourne Film Festival, and the Brisbane Film Festival, will be followed by two guest speakers.
Lismore resident John Patterson will speak about his journey following his brother’s suicide in 1986, while Terang and Mortlake Veterinary Clinic veterinarian Dr Craig Wood will also speak.
“We’re also going to have someone from South West Healthcare’s community mental health team on site on the night if people have got questions or want to talk,” Ms Patterson said.
“We’re going to have information brochures and the like which people can take home.”
All are welcome to attend the screening, with a 6pm start slated for the screening at 7pm.
Finger food will be available, with drinks at bar prices.
Anyone looking to attend is encouraged to RSVP for catering purposes by Monday, July 6 by phoning 5558 3000.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, help is available at Beyond Blue (1300 224 636), Lifeline (13 11 14) and Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800).
Read More: Camperdown, Lismore