A powerful documentary by Kleefeld musician and mental health advocate Robb Nash has received international recognition with a Webby nomination.
If You’re Reading This, released on YouTube in late 2024, was nominated for two Webby Awards: one selected by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, and another as part of the Webby People’s Voice Awards. Public voting closed on April 17, and the winners will be announced on April 22.
"Another chance to talk about the documentary and hope"
The documentary tells Nash’s own story of trauma, survival and healing after a near-fatal accident. It also shares deeply personal accounts from youth and families who have been impacted by his work, which combines music and mental health education across the country.
“We’re not doing this for awards,” said Nash. “But every time something like this happens, it gives us a little more credibility within a school or a potential supporter, financially or otherwise.”
Nash said he hopes the nomination helps more people discover the film and start conversations about mental health.
“Not every story of addiction ends in an overdose,” he said. “Not every story of mental health ends in tragedy. They need to see these stories of hope.”
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The title If You’re Reading This comes from a phrase Nash often found in real suicide notes given to him by students who turned their lives around.
“I was sitting in my studio reading through them, and I just noticed how many of them start with the words ‘If you’re reading this,’” he said. “It hit me.”
That moment inspired both the name of the documentary and an original song, which Nash recorded for the film’s end credits alongside his daughter. The track was produced by Garth Richardson, whose credits include Rage Against the Machine and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Documentary made to be accessible
While Nash received offers to distribute the film on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, he chose YouTube to keep it accessible to everyone.
“We didn’t want it behind a paywall,” he said. “We just wanted as many people to see it as possible.”
Since its release, the documentary has been used in schools and community screenings across Canada. Nash said parents often approach him after watching, saying they better understand how to support their children through mental health challenges.
Nash and his team continue touring schools and theatres across the country, with recent shows in Winnipeg and Edmonton. They’re now working to bring their message to northern and remote communities, including Nunavut.
-With files from Corny Rempel