SILVER City Cinema will host a special screening of Solstice on Thursday, a documentary exploring one small community’s response to the current mental health crisis.
It will be led by local Albury couple Annette and Stuart Baker, whose daughter Mary took her life aged 15 after serious mental health challenges.
The film was produced and directed by Helen Newman, and will be presented by Lifeline Regional SA & Far West NSW, RFDS Wellbeing Place and local filmmaker Jason King with support from Broken Hill Musicians Club.
The Bakers were motivated by the stigma, shame and silence they were met with following Mary’s death to become unintentional advocates for mental health.
Local filmmaker Jason King lost his daughter Jordan to suicide last year at 18, and said talking about mental health is vital to preventing it from continuing to happen in Broken Hill and the Far West.
“It’s important not to shy away from important discussions just because it’s painful or hard,” Mr King said.
“I’m so grateful to the filmmakers for telling Mary’s story and encouraging more discussion around these topics.
“I hope people come and spend some time to watch this film, but more importantly, I hope that as a community we can keep sharing our stories even if it is sometimes difficult and help spread more love and kindness in our community to show people they are not alone, that we are all loved.”
The film will screen at 12.30pm at the Silver City Cinema on Thursday, November 7.
After the one hour screening there will be a Q&A, with refreshments in the foyer.
Representatives from Lifeline, RFDS and local mental health support agencies will be at the screening to offer support and information about their services for the community.
If you need crisis support, please call Lifeline 13 11 14.
