ChildLine: advert-body-1 by Don’t Panic

Childline have teamed up with Don’t Panic to create the campaign #toughtotalk that features hero film ‘Things Guys Don’t Talk About’ and supporting content with the aim to empower boys to seek support for suicidal feelings.

Childline is urging boys to speak out about suicidal feelings as figures reveal they are six times less likely than girls to talk to counsellors about thoughts of ending their lives. The film was created using real accounts from boys over suicidal thoughts and feelings which are subtly referenced throughout the film to indicate to the viewer the signs that someone might be experiencing suicidal thoughts.

The film utilises the listical theme popularised by sites like Buzzfeed but subverts it to tell the story of our main character, Jake. The film begins with humorous scenes that play into the stereotypes associated with teenage boys but as it continues we reveal that Jake is struggling with his feelings, displaying signs of suicidal thoughts. Despite the start scenes towards the end the film ends positively as Jake reaches out to Childline to talk.

The film was directed by Somesuch, duo Luke Seomore and Joseph Bull who worked alongside Don’t Panic in order to bring the creative to life, excellently portraying Jake’s struggle.