Mark is a men's mental health speaker, husband, father of three, and someone who has spent much of his life searching for a sense of belonging.

Growing up in New Zealand, Mark struggled with feelings of shame and not being enough. Over the years he looked for answers in sport, alcohol, achievement, relationships, and anything that might fill the gap he felt inside.

At 20 years old, a drink-driving crash changed the course of his life. His friend Tao suffered life-changing injuries, and Mark was sent to prison. What followed were years marked by grief, addiction, depression, and periods where life felt increasingly difficult to carry.

Mark's life looks very different. Through recovery, fatherhood, running, and learning to understand himself in new ways, he has found a sense of purpose he never thought possible.

He joins us to share his story of accountability, resilience, and what it means to keep holding on when hope feels far away.

This episode features a guest sharing their personal lived experience. The language they use reflects their own journey and may differ from Lifeline's terminology or current best practice language around suicide. While not all views or language used in this episode reflect those of Lifeline, we believe it's important that people can tell their stories in their own words.

Mark is a men's mental health speaker, husband, father of three, and someone who has spent much of his life searching for a sense of belonging.
Growing up in New Zealand, Mark struggled with feelings of shame and not being enough. Over the years he looked for answers in sport, alcohol, achievement, relationships, and anything that might fill the gap he felt inside.
At 20 years old, a drink-driving crash changed the course of his life. His friend Tao suffered life-changing injuries, and Mark was sent to prison. What followed were years marked by grief, addiction, depression, and periods where life felt increasingly difficult to carry.
Mark's life looks very different. Through recovery, fatherhood, running, and learning to understand himself in new ways, he has found a sense of purpose he never thought possible.
He joins us to share his story of accountability, resilience, and what it means to keep holding on when hope feels far away.
This episode features a guest sharing their personal lived experience. The language they use reflects their own journey and may differ from Lifeline's terminology or current best practice language around suicide. While not all views or language used in this episode reflect those of Lifeline, we believe it's important that people can tell their stories in their own words.

Holding on to Hope shares powerful stories from people who have experienced their toughest moments and found a way forward.

Hosted by Lifeline Crisis Supporter Carla, each episode explores the challenges that can lead to emotional distress, the moments that helped someone hold on, and the people, tools and experiences that supported their recovery.

Honest, hopeful and deeply human, these conversations remind us that even in the hardest moments, hope is possible.