Chad's greatest shave for mental health

I'M GETTING THE SNIP!

(No, up here, not down there!)

Since growing my beard, I have often been asked when I'll shave it off. From the beginning, my answer has been that one day I hope to raise some money for charity when that time comes, and here it is.

Five and a half years have passed, we've travelled the world, made some amazing memories, been torn, pulled and covered in baubels, but it's time we part ways. It will not be in vain though, as I'm hoping that we can put a load of money into a worthy cause with your support. I thought a lot about which charity to donate my fundraising efforts to, and the more I spoke with family, friends, and colleagues, the more the same debilitating topic kept coming up. Mental health.

Mental health is often a taboo subject and is swept under the rug by many, and often as children, we’re trained to keep these thoughts and feelings pushed right down, never to be acknowledged. With so many around me who either suffer long-term or go through bouts of struggles at times, I’d love to throw my support behind anything that could help provide relief, a safe place, a voice, or the information and tools required to fight this constant battle.

At midday of July 15th, my beard will be shaved off. Although GoFundMe requires a goal to be entered, I'm not aiming for a fixed amount as I am all too aware of how much financial woes can worsen one’s mental health, so please, if you can’t afford to donate, don’t. Your verbal support and sharing of this post are more than enough.

Those who know me well can attest to how attached I am to my beard (pun intended) and how difficult this decision is after so many years. This shaving has me nervous and saddened at my loss but so enriched with happiness at the support I'm able to give.

I’m adding a little side bonus for those of you who can offer any financial donations. Donators will get to vote on which style my face will be left in by the barber and will stay this way for one month. Just add your vote in the comments during donations, and laugh come July 15th. As much as my work colleagues wanted nothing more than me to have a “Charlie Chaplin”, it has not made the cut for lack of good taste. (Options below, and images in comments)

#1 or No Vote: Clean Shaven

#2: Mutton Chops

#3: Wolverine

#4: Winnfield

#5: Sparrow

#6: Norse Skipper

Share this around all, and let’s raise awareness and money to help such a common health crisis.

More information about Beyond Blue Limited: Beyond Blue's mission is to equip everyone in Australia with the knowledge and skills to achieve their best possible mental health, whatever their age and wherever they live. We give people the confidence to support those around them, and make anxiety, depression and suicide part of everyday conversations. And as well as tackling stigma, prejudice and discrimination, we're breaking down the barriers that prevent people from speaking up and reaching out.