Why I’m Lifting the Load For Young Men's Mental Health This October & Why It Matters

Every year in October, I throw on the Crocs and strap on a weighted vest – and not just for a challenge. I’m taking part in the Top Blokes Foundation’s Lift the Load Challenge for the fourth year in a row, and I want to share why this cause means so much to me.

Because young males’ mental health matters – and not just to me as a support worker, but as someone who has been through it myself.

Young Men's Mental Health Hits Close to Home

When I was younger, I was overweight, extremely shy, and struggled with confidence. I know what it’s like to feel on the outside, to feel like your voice doesn’t matter, and to not believe in yourself. I know the toll it takes; mentally, emotionally and physically. And that’s why I’m passionate about helping the next generation of young boys and teens grow up with the support I wish I had.

I was well into adulthood before I started to overcome my severe shyness and in my 30s before I had any level of confidence in myself and in my natural abilities and talents. I experienced anxiety in my late 30's and remember how hard it was to leave the house to simply go to sessions which were always fun and rewarding, but getting through the anxiety just to get there was really tough for a while.

I don't want that for my clients. I want them to feel okay, supported and confident now.

At Autism & Beyond, I now work closely with boys and teens on the spectrum – many of whom face extra layers of difficulty. Bullying, social exclusion, low self-esteem, frustration, and feeling misunderstood are daily challenges for many of them. These kids aren’t just navigating autism – they’re navigating a world that often isn’t designed for them. And that takes a toll on mental health.

It’s not talked about enough – but it needs to be.

The Stats That Speak Volumes

• 1 in 2 males will experience a mental health disorder in their lifetime

• 75% of suicides are male

• Most mental health issues begin before the age of 24

These aren’t just numbers – they’re our brothers, sons, students, clients and friends. And we can’t keep letting them slip through the cracks.

What I’m Doing About It

For the Lift the Load Challenge, I’ll be walking 50km across October wearing a 10kg weighted vest, representing the mental load that young men carry every day.

But this year, I’m raising the bar.

For every $100 raised, I’ll add another 10kg.

That means by the end of the challenge, I could be walking with 20, 30, even 40kg strapped to me. Because the truth is – that’s what it feels like for so many young guys out there. And if it helps raise awareness, it’s worth every step.

Oh and as I only have 3x 10kg vests... if I happen to raise over $300 I'll simply add another 10km to my walk goal! Raising the bar to hopefully gain more interest and donations!

How You Can Help

• Donate – Every dollar goes to Top Blokes Foundation, supporting real programs that help young men build emotional resilience, stronger relationships and a sense of purpose.

• Join Our Team – We’re inviting anyone in our community to take part alongside the Autism & Beyond team. Walk with us. Wear a vest. Help us lift the load, together.

• Spread the Word – Share this post, tell your mates, tag a parent who needs to know about this. The more people we reach, the better.

Let’s Make a Difference

This isn’t just about October. It’s about making sure our boys grow up knowing they’re not alone – that it’s okay to talk, to feel, and to ask for help.

It’s about building a future where support, connection and emotional health are seen as strengths – not weaknesses.

If you’re in, or want to know more, reach out. And if you’re able to donate, I’d be incredibly grateful.

Let’s lift the load for the boys who need it most and support young men's mental health as a community.

Cheers

Clint

👉 https://www.lifttheload.org.au/clint-bauer

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