Savage receives powerful welcome at Wesley College

Video by TVNZ - 1 News Now

Kiwi hip-hop legend Savage returned to his old school, Wesley College, to give a speech on mental health and received an extremely powerful welcome by students. 

Savage is set to release his latest single Reach Out, which is set to be themed around mental heath and the need for people to speak out if they are struggling with their mental health. 

Savage spoke to TVNZ's 1 News Now, saying the detah of his niece earlier this year was devastating for him and his family. 

"My daughters were very close with my niece, so when the news hit, it just kind of shattered our whole family," he said.

"The best way that I could do that was to share my own testimony," Savage said.

Video / TVNZ - 1 News Now

After Savage's speech at Wesley College, the school performed a version of the 'chapel chat' - a Wesley College tradition. 

Wesley College Principal Brian Evans said it was good for the students to hear Savage's message.

"I think it's fantastic getting past pupils to come in and share their experiences," Mr Evans said.

"A lot of kids are affected with wellbeing and mental illness and I think he's giving them the message to be strong and try to reach out to each other and help each other.

"It will definitely heighten the awareness - it's good to speak about it, and the fact that he's making a video about it based on his experiences, I think, will really enable kids to engage with the topic and find a way to seek help if they need it." Evans said.

WHERE TO GET HELP:

If you are worried about your or someone else's mental health, the best place to get help is your GP or local mental health provider. However, if you or someone else is in danger or endangering others, call 111.

If you need to talk to someone, the following free helplines operate 24/7:

DEPRESSION HELPLINE: 0800 111 757
LIFELINE: 0800 543 354
NEED TO TALK? Call or text 1737
SAMARITANS: 0800 726 666
YOUTHLINE: 0800 376 633 or text 234

There are lots of places to get support. For others, click here.​