Wayne's early years were filled with rugby union and league, providing him companionship and a mental outlet. Despite personal struggles with depression, sports helped him cope.

From a young age, Wayne faced debilitating depression, navigating periods of despair unseen by others. Misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment marked his early experiences with mental health systems but did not define him.

Transitioning from sports to the real world, Wayne joined the fire brigade, discovering a renewed purpose. Nevertheless, he encountered setbacks and tough lessons in trust, which impacted his mental health journey.

After years of battling treatment-resistant depression, Wayne found substantial help under Dr. Gordon Parker at the Black Dog Institute and his path to mental wellness began taking shape.

After his 17 years at Black Dog, Wayne dedicates his life to men's mental health advocacy. His straightforward communication style and personal experiences break stigmas and foster open dialogues, inspiring countless individuals.

Wayne champions a new view of masculinity, advocating that seeking help is strength, not weakness. He emphasises emotional health, being a good person, and family bonds over societal standards of material success.

Wayne’s transformative journey impacted his family positively, inspiring his son to seek mental health help. Focusing on the present, he stresses self-forgiveness and using life's challenges as growth milestones.

Biography

Wayne Wigham is a passionate lived experience speaker with 18 years of experience presenting to rural and remote communities, and corporates including keynote and charity presentations to sporting and community groups.

He is a consultant on men and youth mental health.

Social

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-wigham-19683686

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

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Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.