Andy Robson knows what it is like to stare death in the face and live with a mind stuck in fear. He has also experienced the joy on the other side of that darkness, having faced his fears, embraced adventure, and found a supportive community.
A Battle with Mental Health
The 37-year-old from The Hill in Newcastle has faced profound mental health challenges. While living in Canada during the pandemic, he returned to Australia after his father was diagnosed with a brain tumour. His father passed away a couple of months later. This loss, combined with a relationship breakdown, triggered a deep depression and suicidal thoughts.
“I have faced death head-on many times, but something inside me never gave up. There is always a glimmer of hope,” Mr Robson said. He credits seeing the impact of suicide on others as a key factor in his survival. In 2015, a close friend’s brother took his own life at age 18. Witnessing the family’s devastation made him realise the toll his own death would have on loved ones.
Finding Healing Through Community
Mr Robson found healing through running, self-reflection, and joining the mental health charity Talk2mebro. The organisation holds regular beach catch-ups featuring ice baths, breathing exercises, and conversation to boost mental well-being.
Talk2mebro has opened registrations for Stride to Survive 2026, its major annual fundraising campaign held in May. The month-long challenge invites individuals and groups to walk or run in support of suicide prevention. Funds raised go towards free community services.
Talk2mebro director Luke Conners said Stride to Survive is about “showing up for people who are struggling and building connection.” He added that it helps provide “spaces for our communities where they don’t have to face their hardest days alone.”
Each year, an estimated 55,000 Australians attempt suicide. Stride to Survive sets a collective movement goal of 55,000 kilometres – one kilometre for every person who attempts suicide.
From Three Kilometres to Ultramarathons
Mr Robson discovered Talk2mebro during a foreshore run in Newcastle in 2022. He saw the organisation’s banner, looked it up on Facebook, and felt it was what he needed. He attended a beach catch-up a fortnight later and soon became a custodian, taking on leadership and mentoring roles.
“I try to push myself to continually grow mentally and physically,” he said. When he started running in 2019, he could not manage three kilometres. He slowly built his endurance and self-belief. Last year, he completed two 100-kilometre ultramarathons in Katoomba and the Snowy Mountains. He ran the Kosciuszko event with Luke Conners, describing it as a special shared journey. He also ran with Nedd Brockman on the Milk Run, which raises money for homelessness.
“Running is something that really helped me find mental stability,” Mr Robson said. “And the power of community has helped me so much. A lot of people have been with me along the way.”
Inspiring Others
Mr Robson runs inspiring Instagram and YouTube channels documenting his triumphs and tribulations. He speaks about pain, suffering, loss, responsibility, potential, how comfort can be the silent killer of dreams, and the thrill of adventure. “Pain is part of life, but I believe suffering is optional,” he said.
The Newcastle challenge begins with a run on Saturday from Lambton Park at 6:45 am, followed by breakfast at First Light cafe in the park. For more information, visit talk2mebro.org.au/stride-to-survive.
Support is available for those who may be distressed. Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; Mensline 1300 789 978; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800; beyondblue 1300 224 636; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732.
