Home and Away‘s Jake Ryan has shared a powerful message about men’s mental health.
The TV star – who plays troubled Robbo on the long running Australian soap – took to social media to share a sweet snap with his Summer Bay co-star and on-screen love interest Sam Frost (Jasmine Delaney) from the Logie Awards in Queensland on Sunday night.
WATCH the stars of Home and Away arrive at the Logies:
Jake urged young men to “look after each other” when it comes to depression and other health issues, writing:
“Beauty and the Beast. Black on black by @farageaustralia & supporting @blackdoginst.
“It’s OK, not to be OK. Speak up gentleman, depression is real and we gotta look after each other. xx #logies2019#jazz&robbo thanks for the pin, Ray (Alf) x”
The post quickly racked up more than 2,200 likes and dozens of comments, with one user saying: “You’re such a cutie… and you are 100 % right!!!! It’s ok not to be OK!!! 💪🏻😍😘”
Last year, the 35-year-old actor opened up about his real life experience with mental health for the first time in an interview with Daily Mail Australia.
Speaking about his difficult past, Jake revealed he had a number of friends who struggled with depression and one who ultimately took his own life.
“I think it’s such a major problem for young men dealing with depression in society. A lot of people do suffer from it,” he said.
Jake noted the social stigma surrounding mental health is fading, saying: “[It] definitely seems like it’s improved since I was in my twenties.”
Jake previously partnered with Georgia Love, Michael Klim and Olympia Valance on a campaign for Polished Man, an organisation that works to improve mental health in young people and protect children against domestic violence.
The Home and Away favourite said he signed up because of his beloved nephews, who he regularly dotes over on Instagram.
“They’re almost like some of my best friends,” he said of his nephews.
In May, the TV heartthrob revealed he is expecting his first child with girlfriend Alice Quiddington.
The couple, who started dating earlier this year, shared the exciting news on Instagram.
If you or someone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
