Hunting for great mental health
Mental health campaigner Glen Thurston is the guest on this week's The Outlet Podcast talking through the barriers that stop firearms owners reaching out for help.
Wānaka builder Thurston climbed Corner Peak near Lake Hāwea 53 times in 2022, raising awareness of the number of people in the construction industry who take their lives each year.
Since then, the keen outdoorsman has founded charitable trust Mental Hunts, which advocates for mental wellness among firearms license holders. The episode explores how stigma and fear of losing their licenses prevents many from seeking help. This concern is particularly pronounced in rural and farming communities where firearms are integral to daily life and livelihood.
"Long term, I see this being a massive crisis for the country," he tells Outlet host Bren Harbour. "We're doing all this good stuff about breaking the stigma around men's mental health and all this. But in the background, there's this hidden barrier, and no one's talking about it. No one's doing anything about it.
"I thought it was time to step up. It's more than just me losing my license. I've now got my license back, no issues, but I'm doing this for everyone else, and it needs to change."
The episode also touches on the legislation following the Christchurch mosque shootings, the need for collaboration and lobbying of authorities such as the Ministerial Arms Advisory Group, and the healing power of nature, with Thurston explaining how hunting in the mountains is a form of meditation, supporting well-being.
If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or out-of-sorts, here’s some numbers that can connect you 24 hours a day to people trained to help:
Free call or text 1737
Lifeline 0800 543 354
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, please call 111
