NZ TV host opens up about the promise that he made Greg Boyed before he passed away

Matt Chisolm, the host of Survivor NZ has posted on social media about his struggles with mental health over the years.

He shared a selfie from outside a doctor's practice in Auckland with the caption: “I’m buggered… my head hurts… it’s not working as well as it was… I’m not smiling much…laughing even less. I promised Greg (Boyed), my old workmate…before he died from depression…I’d go see the doc… it’s taken months… cos of you know…life… but… Greg me old mate… today… I took that first step.”

It was revealed earlier this year that TVNZ host Greg Boyed had been battling depression for a while before he passed away.

READ MORE: 

• Tributes flow in for Greg Boyed from his TVNZ colleagues 

Matt joins other New Zealand TV hosts who have spoken about their mental health on social media this year, Kanoa Lloyd posted about it in October: "Talking is such a powerful way to make even the biggest stresses seem small and manageable,” she says.

“I know seeing a counsellor just isn’t possible for everyone… but we can all do more to help the people we love talk and open up and maybe lighten the load a little. We ask “how are you?” a million times a day… and often tune out before the obligatory “Good thanks!”. But what about asking “are you feeling ok?” instead and really listening to the answer. And if the answer is "I'm not very good" take the time to ask why and try not to judge. I’m not perfect at this btw!”

It's great to see these New Zealand role models normalising this issue which affects a wide range of New Zealanders. 

Where to get help:

• Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (available 24/7)

• Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)

• Youthline: 0800 376 633

• Kidsline: 0800 543 754 (available 24/7)

• Whatsup: 0800 942 8787 (1pm to 11pm)

• Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 (available 24/7)

• Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155

• Samaritans 0800 726 666

• If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111