mmg.com.au

Australia’s first man and former Shepparton resident Tim Mathieson has been named as one of six new ambassadors for youth mental health organisation Headspace.

Mr Mathieson joins Neighbours actor James Mason and high-profile AFL players such as Gold Coast’s Campbell Brown and Geelong’s Simon Hogan.

The ambassadors will raise awareness about youth mental health issues and encourage young people who are going through a tough time to seek help.

Headspace chief executive Chris Tanti said ambassadors were an important part of the work it did to raise awareness in the community, especially among young people.

‘‘Headspace is all about promoting better mental health outcomes for young people around the country,’’ Mr Tanti said.

‘‘We know young men are notoriously reluctant to seek help when it comes to mental health issues, so these new male ambassadors will play a significant role engaging with and educating young men on the often taboo topic of mental health.

‘‘Each ambassador brings something different to the role, whether it’s a personal experience, such as Simon Hogan, general interest in the area, like Tim Mathieson, or even professional expertise, like Nick Duigan, who is a qualified psychologist and works at our Headspace centre in southern Melbourne.’’