Suicide prevention organisation R U OK? is calling on Australia to take a global lead in preventing suicide by making more effort to have regular, meaningful conversations with anyone who might be struggling.This year, R U OK?Day and World Suicide Prevention Day fall on the same date, drawing attention to Australia’s role in addressing this global public health issue. Every 40 seconds someone dies by suicide, and the organisers believe that we all should be doing as much as possible to prevent feelings of isolation and loneliness occurring in our community.
Facts:
- More than 2,500 Australians suicide each year. That’s about 7 people every day.
- 65,000 people attempt suicide each year in Australia
- Suicide is the biggest killer of Australians under 44 years
- Men account for around 75 per cent of all suicide deaths in Australia
Meaningful conversations with family and friends aren’t about solving someone’s problem; but helping that person feel connected and supported.
We’ll all grapple with tragedy, loss, and grief through life – and many of us will also live with a mental illness, regular, meaningful conversations are one way we can all support each other to cope with change, adversity and illness. If you ask; listen without judgement; encourage action; and follow up, you can make a positive difference to someone’s resilience and wellbeing.
R U OK? is using its national day of action to urge people to say thanks to anyone who’s been there for them during a rough patch or a tough day. R U OK? Day can be the day to start a conversation, as well as celebrate the people who already do that on a regular basis.
