Acclaimed British Writer, Poet and Activist Hussain Manawer, has released ‘Lonely’ – a powerful poetic short film aimed to normalise the stigma around asking for help to overcome loneliness.
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, and a subsequent increase in pressure on people’s lives, cases of mental health in the UK have risen dramatically with many now experiencing depression and loneliness. With mental health costing the NHS nearly £119 billion every year, the film ‘Lonely’ looks at taking proactive steps to getting the help needed whilst holding a mirror back to society.
Hussain Manawer commented, “At times people may think that they are the only person experiencing an issue, when really there are hundreds, even thousands of people experiencing exactly the same thing. But we get so caught up in our lives, that we forget to check up on each other.”
Watch the poetic short film ‘Lonely’ video here
Alongside the overarching message encouraging people to reach out if they need support, the film also shines a light on mental health in men.
Hussain continues: “Over 75% of suicides are carried out by men, therefore addressing the topic from a male perspective will hopefully open up important conversations. Speaking about feelings of loneliness, the film focusses on starting the conversation on mental health issues with family, friends or trusted people.”
The talented East Londoner is no stranger to being in the limelight and talking on mental health. He set the Guinness World Record for ‘The World’s Largest Mental Health Lesson’ and received the prestigious ‘Point of Light’ Award from The Prime-minister at 10 Downing Street. Shortly after he joined the highly esteemed list of fellows at King’s College London – becoming the youngest Honorary Doctorate both at King’s and Oxford Brooke’s universities.
The Grammy’s hail him as ‘one of today’s dopest poets, and in 2019, Manawer made history as he became the first poet in history to open Soccer Aid for Unicef at Stamford Bridge live on ITV. Following the performance at Royal request of HRH Prince William Hussain went on to become the first poet to open The FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium in 2020.
Film Directed By Stanley Morgan. Includes Actors Gilbert Kyem Jnr and James Harkness from One Five Five Productions. The short film was executive produced by Zyna Goldy.
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