Craig Hamilton was setting off for the 2000 Sydney Olympics — the biggest job of his broadcasting career — when he experienced a breakdown that would change his life forever. His documentary The Promise, tells the story.
More than 20 years on from his breakdown, Hamilton is a full-time mental health advocate and public speaker, helping others through education and by working hard to destigmatise mental illness. His documentary on suicide prevention is a moving account of his journey with bipolar disorder. There is one simple but important task he urges everyone watching to do: make a promise to tell someone in their life if their thoughts ever get too dark to handle alone.
'The moment you share your experience, the load becomes lighter.'
If you or anyone you know needs immediate support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
The Promise will screen at the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival this Sunday, July 28, and will stream on Stan later this year.
Emily Kaine
Emily is a third year journalism student with a keen interest in Australian politics and women's issues. She is an avid reader and loves to post book reviews on Instagram in her spare time.
