ABOUT US
THE mission, values, and the people behind
At MentalHunts, we understand the importance of mental health in the hunting community. We are two passionate individuals who share a common goal: to provide resources, support, and education to promote better mental health and well-being among hunters. Learn more about our mission, values, and the people behind MentalHunts.
THE MISSION
At MentalHunts, our mission is to break down the barriers to mental health support, promote firearm safety, and foster education within our community.
We recognise that seeking help for mental health issues can be daunting due to stigma, lack of access, and fear of consequences such as firearms revocation. Therefore, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where individuals feel empowered to prioritise their mental well-being without fear of judgment or repercussions.
At MentalHunts, we believe that everyone deserves access to mental health support and resources, regardless of their background or circumstances. By addressing the intersecting issues of mental health and firearms ownership, we strive to create a safer, healthier, and more informed community for all.
glen thurston
Glen Thurston is a Father, a builder and has a love for the great outdoors, especially hunting. He is a seasoned warrior in the battle against depression, having grappled with its challenges for the majority of his life. His journey through the depths of mental illness, alcohol abuse is now thriving and his journey has equipped him with a unique perspective and desire to make a difference in the lives of others who face similar struggles.
In a moment of inspiration, Glen conceived an idea he dubbed “Turn the Corner”, This initiative took shape as Glen embarked on a monumental challenge: to climb Corner Peak at Lake Hawea an astonishing 53 times in 53 days. This remarkable feat was undertaken to raise awareness about the alarming average suicide rate (53) in the construction industry in New Zealand in which glen works, a cause close to Glen's heart. Through his determination and resilience, Glen sought to shine a light on the issue of mental health and encourage dialogue, education and action to support those in need.
However, Glen's advocacy for mental health faced a personal setback in the years before in October 2019 when he encountered the mental health services, resulting in the revocation of his firearms licence. With the implementation of new legislation in early 2019 and the resulting barriers for firearms licence holders seeking help, Glen recognised the need for support and change within the legislation for firearms license holders and the hunting community.
Through his own lived experiences and unwavering dedication, Glen Thurston continues to be a beacon of hope and resilience for individuals grappling with mental illness. His commitment to raising awareness, fostering understanding, and advocating for change serves as an inspiration to all who are touched by his story. Glen's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative impact of turning personal adversity into a catalyst for positive action.
SAM MANSON
Sam Manson, 34, is an experienced hunting guide with over a decade of expertise in the field, both in New Zealand and internationally. Sam's extensive knowledge of the outdoors and his passion for hunting have made him a trusted guide for adventurers seeking the thrill of the hunt and the serenity of nature.
Throughout his career, Sam has witnessed firsthand the profound impact mental health can have on firearms owners. This has inspired him to transition into the mental health field, where he aims to provide support and resources to those in need.
By leveraging his unique background, Sam is dedicated to fostering a safer and more supportive environment for firearms owners, addressing the challenges they face with compassion and understanding. In addition to his guiding work, Sam is committed to raising awareness about mental health issues and advocating for mental wellness within the hunting community. His goal is to ensure that all firearms owners have access to the help and support they need, promoting both safety and well-being.
ned brannigan
Ned Brannigan is a keen videographer who loves to tell compelling stories. Through an array of production experience in sport, commercial, and documentary styled videos, Ned has honed in on helping tell stories that have weight. A subtle, yet consistent theme across his documentaries has always been mental wellbeing. Ned's path intersected with Glen's through Turn The Corner, a project shedding light on mental health challenges in the construction industry. The film went on to received multiple awards throughout New Zealand, connecting with many who could relate to the topics discussed. Most important was the feedback from those who had been through the same struggle as Glen, all of which mentioned how the film had impacted them.
