The Outlet

Glen Thurston: Balancing Mental Health and Responsible Firearm Ownership in Rural Communities

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This podcast with Glen talks about, firearms, hunting, firearms laws, mental health and suicide.

If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or out-of-sorts, here’s some numbers that can connect you 24 hours a day to people trained to help:

Free call or text 1737
Lifeline 0800 543 354
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, please call 111


Glen Thurston joins us from Mental Hunts, a charitable trust with a mission to support firearm license holders who face mental health challenges, particularly in rural and farming communities. Glen shares his personal story of how seeking help led to the wrongful removal of his firearms, a situation that deeply affected his farming life. Through his experiences, we uncover the stigma and fear that prevent many from reaching out for the support they desperately need, highlighting the importance of addressing these critical barriers to foster a healthier relationship between mental wellness and responsible firearm ownership.

We explore the nuances of mental health and firearms licensing, underscoring that disclosing mental health issues like depression or PTSD doesn't automatically mean losing your firearms license. It's time to dispel the myths and misinformation that terrify gun owners into silence. Our conversation emphasizes the benefits of early intervention and open communication with regulatory bodies, all with the aim of building trust and understanding.

Hunting isn't just about recreation; it's a means of therapy, especially for those in isolated rural communities. We talk about how hunting provides a form of "mountain medicine," helping individuals connect with nature, find focus, and alleviate stress. With rising grocery costs, the financial benefits of hunting can't be overlooked either. Mental Hunts offers resources and guidance to support those navigating these issues, and we stress that seeking help is a universal need, transcending gender and occupation. Join us in changing the narrative and encouraging a culture where getting help is seen as a strength, not a liability.
https://www.mentalhunts.co.nz/about

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