R U OK? 3 words for Suicide Prevention
Lance Scoular
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Today is the 13th September 2018, as I write this.
And it is RU OK? Day in Australia.
RUOK? ( Are You OK? )
R U OK? Day (Wikipedia) “is an annual day in September (the second Thursday) dedicated to remind people to ask family, friends and colleagues the question, "R U OK?", in a meaningful way, because connecting regularly and meaningfully is one thing everyone can do to make a difference to anyone who might be struggling.”
Background
In a 12-month period, it is estimated that 65,000 Australians make a suicide attempt, with an average of 2,320 people dying by suicide every year. In fact, around 45 per cent of Australians will experience mental illness in their lifetime, while 20 per cent are affected every year. (Wikipedia)
I have written about this day, on this day, over the last few years.
I have a question for you.
Is there some you know personally who has taken their own life?
Or
Perhaps someone you know, knows someone who has taken their own life?
Have you ever thought, “If only…?”
We can’t change the past.
However, got a niggling feeling that someone you know or care about isn’t behaving as they normally would?
We can have a conversation that could change a life.
By starting a conversation and commenting on the changes you’ve noticed, you could help that family member, friend or workmate open up.
If they say they are not OK, you can follow the suggested conversation steps to show them they’re supported and help them find strategies to better manage the load.
If they are OK, that person will know you’re someone who cares enough to ask.
Here are 2 Videos for RUOK? Day
A short video I made last year (2017) for R U OK? Day. (Run Time of 5:39 min)
R U OK? 3 words for Suicide Prevention
The Story of R U OK?
This is the story of the late Gavin Larkin and his passion for protecting other Australians from the pain he felt after the death of his dad. (Run Time of 3:43 min)
Please note: This content could be distressing for some.
If this story has brought up some tough emotions, you can find a number of supports listed here:
MORE LINKS:
RUOK?
My RUOK? LinkedIn Articles
RUOK? Thanks for Asking - It’s OK 2 say You’re not - LinkedIn 2015
Zemblanity, Suicide and My Family - R U OK? LinkedIn 2014
Business Systems Analyst at Colliers International
6 年Two people asked me if I was ok today. Lance Scoular was one of them. Mel Madgwick was the other. Thank you both. I wasn't really ok and I really appreciated you asking.
Strategic Communications Advisor, Ghostwriter and Writer-Editor. I help clients optimize brand visibility via PR and digital media by strategically navigating today’s fluid political, media and public policy landscape.
6 年Lance: thanks for sharing this critically important information. More awareness is needed. #socialimpact #mentalhealth #health #suicideprevention #suicideassessment