A mental health expert says children need to be spoken to about mental health in the same way we discuss general health issues.

The message comes after the suicide death of a 10-year-old boy in Wollongong.

Last week, rugby league coach Paul Green took his own life.

“Whether it’s a 10-year-old boy or a 49-year-old footy coach … whenever this happens it is just devastating,” Brain and Mind Research Institute Executive Director Professor Ian Hickie told Ben Fordham.

The professor says mental health is important across all ages.

“It’s a really hard discussion to have, but they are the discussions we as a community must have if we’re going to make a real difference.”

Press PLAY below to hear the full interview

If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.