Geoff Arnold

About My Challenge

I'm completing 3,307 push-ups in 24 days to raise awareness and funds for mental health in Australia.

According to The Australian Bureau of Statistics data taken in the year 2024, 3307 people died to suicide, 11.8 deaths per 100,000 Australians every day. That’s more than double the National road toll, with a disproportionate number (~75%) of those deaths by people that identify as male, and is the leading cause of deaths in the 15-44 year old population.

In addition, the rate death by suicide is compounded by social factors, with prevalence almost double in our Aboriginal and Torres Straight Island communities. We also observe greater numbers of death in the LGBTIQ+ community, and survey data shows rates of self harm and attempted suicide rates 10 times greater than the National averages.

Beyond the tragic loss of individuals, the data also shows that 135 people in their immediate sphere will be significantly impacted by their loss.

Beyond deaths, there are various other mental health challenges faced by the every day Australians that are contributing and co-morbid. Depression, anxiety, paranoia, PTSD, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorders. The list is extensive and challenging to combat, both for the individuals who experience them, their support networks, and the broader community.

Every day we walk through life beside at risk people. Family, friends, colleagues; it's hard to stop and look at what they're not saying, which may be shouting out loud the where they are mentally. The Push for Better Foundation works to equip people to identify risks in themselves and others, and where to find help.