“Tell your mates you love them” - Port Douglas local Alison Munro pushes for mental health awareness

ON NATIONAL RADIO

Giada Pestillo

Reporter

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Alison Munro shares her journey and the importance of mental health awareness. Picture: Alison Munro

When Alison Munro came across a news article highlighting Australia as one of the top 10 countries for suicide rates, it struck a deep and personal chord. The 24-year-old Port Douglas native and producer for the Jase & Lauren Radio Show on Nova 100 had recently lost three close friends to suicide in a single year, prompting her to share her story on the show.

That article became the catalyst for Ms Munro to share her own story about mental health, hoping to ignite an important conversation in her community and beyond.

"It was such a rough period of time", Ms Munro reflected on the challenging year that began in March 2022. 

“You don’t realise the impact it has on you and everyone else around you—families, close friends. It’s heartbreaking to see people go through that.”

Alison Munro with her colleagues from the Jase & Lauren Show who supported her throughout her experience. Picture: Alison Munro

The loss of her friends, all around her age, left a profound mark on her life and outlook.

Despite the immense pain and difficulty of discussing such a personal topic, Ms Munro felt compelled to speak out. “I never thought that I would but it just naturally happened,” she admitted. 

“I think I was finally ready to tell my story. I’m so passionate about raising awareness of mental health and the impact it has on everyone.”

The unwavering support from her colleagues at the Jase & Lauren Show played a crucial role in her decision to open up. 

“The people I work with make me feel so comfortable. They’re like family, and they knew how important this was to me”, she shared. “Their support made it easier for me to talk about it.”

Ms Munro’s openness has resonated strongly within her community in Port Douglas and beyond. 

“So many people reached out to say how proud they were of me for speaking up, for sharing my story”, she said. 

When asked what advice she would give to those who might be struggling, Ms Munro’s message was simple and heartfelt.

“Just know that it always gets better, no matter what you’re going through. Losing someone never goes away, but you learn how to cope and focus on the good. Surround yourself with a supportive group of people and live your life to the fullest.”

Ms Munro’s courage in sharing her experience is breaking down the stigma and encouraging others to seek the support they need.

As Ms Munro and her friends often say, “Tell your mates you love them, no matter what”.

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