With a coffee in hand and the camera rolling, Corowa man Pat Lawson reaches out to thousands every morning to see how they are going.
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He wears a cap that reads “never alone” as he lets a group of strangers in on his roller coaster of thoughts and feelings.
Mr Lawson will post a video filled with sadness and tears, which soon gives way to another one packed with sillyness and laughter.
He welcomes everyone and thanks them for coming together to support each other.
He said he makes himself vulnerable to let people know it's okay to say three words: “I need help”.
Mr Lawson was diagnosed with clinical depression, anxiety and emotional lability in February leaving him with a lot of built up anger.
After a hard-time early this month, he decided to create a Facebook page and a group called “3 Words. I Need Help” on August 10.
In under two weeks, the page has gone global with nearly 1500 followers and the group has 2000.
“I had a rough couple of days and I tried to build my spirits by taking pictures of my kids with some nice quotes,” Mr Lawson said.
“I found myself talking into the camera and it made me feel better.
“So I thought I might be able to help some friends, then the page took off.”
The page is a support network for anyone struggling with mental illness as a reminder they are not alone.
It is filled with motivational quotes and tips for coping with stress and grief.
The page's followers contribute videos, share their stories openly and also send their experiences via message for Mr Lawson to share anonymously.
He said he is aiming to break down the stigma associated with mental illness, particularly for men.
“The concept of "suck it up princess" is not healthy, you need to know you can open up and say you need help,” he said.
“I'm trying to get the message out that even by opening up to me, that's a brave thing to do.
“The biggest word people say is "I don't have the courage" and that’s the stigma behind depression - that’s what I’m trying to break.”
The page is closely monitored and anyone bringing negativity is removed.
However, the response has been overwhelmingly positive and supportive.
Mr Lawson said he has made several changes to improve his life for the better since his diagnosis.
He has changed from factory work to sales and enrolled to do a community services diploma online.
He said he never thought he would go down this path, but has found a passion for helping people.
“Knowing how hard it can be, you don't want anyone else to go down that track,” he said.
Everyone is welcome to join the support page which can be found by searching 3 Words. I Need Help on Facebook.
Anyone experiencing hardship should contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636.
