Documentary tackles rural men's mental health crisis - "When the Dust Settles" screening aims to break silence around suicide in regional communities

A powerful documentary exploring the devastating impact of suicide in rural Australia will screen in Broken Hill this weekend, as part of ongoing efforts to address the mental health crisis affecting regional communities.

"When the Dust Settles," directed by Stuart McKay, examines the ripple effects of suicide in country areas while focusing specifically on men's mental health challenges in rural settings.

The documentary addresses a critical issue often left unspoken in regional communities, where people frequently keep their mental health struggles private and attempt to cope alone until it becomes too late.

"Suicide in regional areas is something that is not talked about often enough, nor as openly as it should be," organisers noted. "In the bush, people often keep their mental health problems to themselves and try to struggle on without reaching out until it's too late."

The film will screen at Silver City Cinema in Broken Hill on Sunday, 22 September 2025, at 6:30pm.

The documentary aims to shed light on the often-unseen realities of men's mental health challenges in regional communities, where traditional attitudes and isolation can prevent people from seeking help.

Rural areas across Australia continue to experience disproportionately high suicide rates, particularly among men, making documentaries like "When the Dust Settles" crucial tools for community education and awareness.

The title itself reflects the aftermath of tragedy – the period when communities must come to terms with loss and work towards healing and prevention.

The Broken Hill screening represents part of broader efforts to bring mental health awareness to regional areas through community events and open discussion.

Tickets for the screening can be booked through the Silver City Cinema website at https://www.silvercitycinema.online/

The documentary has previously been screened in other regional centres as part of mental health awareness initiatives, with community organisations working to ensure the film reaches audiences who may benefit from its message.

For those unable to attend the screening, mental health support services remain available through organisations such as Lifeline (13 11 14), Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636), and local community health services.