Hawthorn in partnership with long term community partner, beyondblue, are calling on all fans to get along to the MCG this Friday night to help ‘shine a light on mental health’ celebrating the annual beyondblue Cup.

In a club first, the MCG lights will be turned off after the players final warm up pre-match to raise much needed awareness of mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety within the community. When the lights are switched off, fans will be asked to turn their phone torches on and hold it up to create light-filled stands.

During this time, X factor and Australia’s Got Talent contestant, Taylor Henderson will be performing a special song for the crowd in what should be a powerful pre-game activation.

The Hon. Jeff Kennett AC, Chairman of beyondblue, has highlighted the importance of this match in addressing mental health issues through increased awareness and education.

“This should be an absolutely amazing spectacle,” Mr Kennett said. “Fans can draw attention to mental health in such a simple, but dramatic way before watching these two top teams do battle for the Cup.

“We encourage fans at the game and those watching at home, to check out the beyondblue website if they’re having a tough time or to find out how to make a donation.

“Currently, three million Australians are experiencing depression, anxiety or both. beyondblue aims to reduce the stigma around getting help for these conditions, educate people about the signs and symptoms, and encourage people to seek help via our Support Service or a GP, sooner rather than later,” he said.

To find out more about beyondblue, visit beyondblue.org.au.

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