Ola Shahin
Ola Shahin is a Palestinian-Kiwi engineer and a community football coach at Manukau United Football Club with an inspiring journey. She has spoken openly about her journey with depression and anxiety, giving voice to so many people who live with mental illness. Ola's lived experiences bring a rare, stark grittiness and transparency to the meaning of belonging, of being a New Zealander. You are in for such a beautiful storytelling experience about mental health, a sense of belonging, football life and cake!
Content warning: This article covers the topic of suicide.
Listen to it on Spotify, Apple podcast, via AccessMedia or read the transcript below.
Where to get help:
1737, Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor
Lifeline – 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
Samaritans – 0800 726 666
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
What's Up – 0800 942 8787 (for 5–18 year olds). Phone counselling is available Monday to Friday, midday–11pm and weekends, 3pm–11pm. Online chat is available 7pm–10pm daily.
Kidsline – 0800 54 37 54 (0800 kidsline) for young people up to 18 years of age. Open 24/7.
thelowdown.co.nz – or email team@thelowdown.co.nz or free text 5626
Anxiety New Zealand - 0800 ANXIETY (0800 269 4389)
Rural Support Trust - 0800 787 254 (0800 RURAL HELP)
Supporting Families in Mental Illness - 0800 732 825