Social Media is being employed to allow people to have fun with their mobile phone ‘selfies’ – and at the same time raise awareness of depression and other mental health issues.
The sad passing of actor and comedian Robin Williams this week has inspired Audrey Lee to set up ‘Sillyface SAMH Selfies’ on Facebook. Mr Williams was known to have suffered from depression but remained an inspiration throughout the world.
Audrey is asking people to post their ‘selfies’ on the Facebook page pulling a funny face – emulating the spirit of Robin Williams who loved nothing more than to make people laugh.
The actor was also a firm believer in the ‘laughter is the best medicine’ doctrine, having played the role of Dr ‘Patch’ Adams in the 1998 semi-autobiographical drama about Dr Adams’ ground-breaking work in that area of medicine.
All funds raised from the new Facebook page will be donated to the Moray branch of the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH).
Audrey said: “I have the charities full support and we are trying to raise some extra funds so they can help more people.
“I know that some of my friends suffer depression and want to help, but also to the people who suffer in silence and are too embarrassed, scared or ashamed to go and seek help.
“If we can get people talking about depression and mental ill health it takes away the stigma.”
People can upload their selfies on Facebook while they can also donate £3 to SAMH by texting TALK to 70040.