Hundreds of strangers answer plea for help from man 'struggling with life'
A Victorian man struggling to cope the burdens of life has been overwhelmed with the kindness of strangers after receiving hundreds of responses to his plea for help.
Matthew James, 19, took to men's groups on Facebook asking for help in coping with the recent death of his mother.
He said he had struggled emotionally with his recent loss and was seeking a good role model in his area.
"I want someone older to talk to and maybe give me some advice as I'm kind of struggling with life at the moment," he said.
Since he shared his story on Thursday the teen has been overwhelmed with praise and support from more than 400 people.
He told 7 News Online he had received more than 180 personal messages and a handful of phone calls from strangers sharing their kindness.
The young man from Moe said he had already been invited to lunch and out to drinks for his birthday so he wasn't alone.
He said his feelings of loneliness prompted him to reach out for help online.
"The responses started flooding in and haven't stopped," he said.
Mr James admitted initially he was "terrified" to post his plea and didn't expect anyone to respond, but he was happy putting himself out there had paid off.
“Happy birthday for Monday champ and good on you for asking for some advice. It takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there like that especially on something like this. Always here if you need a chat!" one of the responses said.
Many praised him for reaching out and encouraged others to do the same.
“Hey bud reaching out like this is an amazing step and I encourage everyone to do the same no one will think different of anyone. If you need a chat Matt flick me a pm and i'll give you my number,” another respondent said.
Mr James said the responses has restored his faith in the world and he defined the act as "Australian pride".
“Blokes are always meant to be the ones who don’t speak out and say nice things and always make out to be tough,” he said.
"If you go outside of the normal means of trying to find someone tot talk to you realise you aren’t really alone."
He said he still has loads of messages to get through and is taking the time to read and respond to everyone.
If you or someone you know is struggling mentally contact Lifeline for support on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline 1800 551 800.
