Our Story
Monkey Boy for Mental Health was born from the deepest kind of loss — the preventable death of Tammie's son, Kiah, in a moment of mental health crisis. His story fuels everything we do. MB4MH exists to honour his memory, fight for systemic change, and ensure that no call for help ever goes unanswered again. Through advocacy, awareness, and community, we’re turning heartbreak into hope.
Our Core Message
At Monkey Boy for Mental Health, we believe that mental health access/support/services/treatment is a fundamental human right — and that no one should be ignored in their moment of crisis. Our mission is to break down stigma, demand accountability, and build a community where support is real, response is timely, and every life matters.
Our Mission Statement
"Monkey Boy for Mental Health (MB4MH) is dedicated to breaking down the barriers to mental health awareness, support, and accessibility for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Our mission is to cultivate a world where mental well-being is prioritized, stigma is eradicated, and everyone has access to the resources and support they need to thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially. Through innovative outreach, education, and advocacy, we strive to empower communities, foster resilience, and inspire actions that promote mental health as a fundamental human right."
Monkey Boy for Mental Health (MB4MH) was founded as a heartfelt response to a deeply personal tragedy—the loss of Kiah to suicide in Easter 2022. This initiative emerged from the profound grief and determination of Tammie Opie and Family to turn their pain into a force for positive change. Inspired by Kiah's story and his cherished companion, Monkey Boy, the project aims to honour his memory and embody his view of the world, where everyone is seen as unique and human, without discrimination.
MB4MH is dedicated to spreading awareness and understanding of mental health issues across diverse demographics. Through the creation and distribution of sensory fidget mats, the development of "The Monkey Boy Guide to Mindfulness," the provision of Mindfulness-Based Mental Health Support & Education, and fundraising for Mental Health Research, the initiative seeks to educate on mental health symptoms and mindfulness techniques. Ultimately, MB4MH strives to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, advocating for a society that supports and understands those affected, directly or indirectly, by mental
health challenges.
At the heart of our mission is Kiah’s Rule — a call for change born from tragedy. We’re fighting to ensure that every person in mental health crisis is met with compassion, timely intervention, and real accountability. Kiah’s story is not just our why — it’s our call to action.
About me
Hi, I’m Tammie Opie — a graduate of Criminology and Psychology from Central Queensland University. I’m passionate about mental health and committed to breaking the stigma that surrounds it. My work is grounded in lived experience and the belief that mental health care is a human right.
In 2022, after the heartbreaking loss of my eldest son to suicide, my mother Beryl and I founded MB4MH – Monkey Boy for Mental Health. What began with handmade sensory mats has grown into a national movement promoting awareness, emotional resilience, and practical support.
I’m also actively advocating for legislative reform through KIAH’s Rule, which aims to strengthen mental health responses and accountability across Australia. With a strong interest in the intersection of mental health and the justice system, I’m committed to driving meaningful, long-term change.
Through writing, community work, and compassion-led advocacy, I hope to help build a more understanding, inclusive, and mentally healthy society for all.
