Suicide is a grim topic and hard to talk about. But it’s a lot harder to talk about after it’s happened so let’s start having the conversations now.
September at Southern Cross Protection is when we focus on Mind Health and support R U OK? Day on the 8th of September.
We do this because we are a male dominated industry and because current mental health statistics show that 1,000,000 Australians suffer from depression, two million from anxiety and that out of 7 suicides per day in Australia, 5 are men.
We believe the risk to our people in the security industry may be even higher due to shift work and the possibility of exposure to upsetting or traumatic events.
This is why it is incredibly important to us that we raise awareness and encourage our men (and our women) to take their mental health seriously, seek help early, and support their mates in the industry.
Our program this year tries to encourage a bit more ‘fun’ in our workplaces as well as addressing the very serious and distressing topic of suicide.
Our focus on fun included a gratitude poster that could be updated by individuals writing down what they were grateful for that day (assists in managing depression), tear off ‘take a moment to…’ slips, colouring-in sheets and pencils (good for mindfulness!) and R U OK? / smiley face stress balls to have a game with, squeeze or simply remind us to ask R U OK?
We have supported these activities with practical toolbox talks covering the signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression, how to start a conversation asking how someone is feeling, and links to Beyond Blue, Lifeline and our internal Employee Assistance Program.
The mental health of our people is critically important to us and we hope that our Mind Health program helps give them the skills to better manage their own mind health as well as in their families and communities.
Inspiring Conversations at Work
(via ruok.org.au/stories)
Hear from a legal professional on why conversations matter:
“As a community and as individuals, we’re stronger together and it’s important that we make more time for the people we care about,” Rebecca Lewis, R U OK? Campaign Director said. “Use today as an opportunity to start a conversation with someone you were once close to, as well as reach out to anyone you’re worried about. Then, make a commitment to be there for one another throughout the year.”
“The more we talk, the more people are encouraged to seek help,” Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said. “Checking in with each other is something we can all do to help those around us. So if you think someone you know might need help, ask the question: ‘Are you ok?’”
R U OK? Conversation Expert Professor Nick Glozier said we’ve all got what it takes to be there for one another – because it ultimately comes down to listening and not judging what someone wants to share.
“Once you start a conversation and a mate opens up, don’t rush in or leap to conclusions,” Nick said. “It’s important that you listen to what they have to say and guide the conversation with more open questions. Don’t try and fix their problems – or provide the answers – but help them to identify what they can do to better manage the load.”
Inspiring Conversations at Work
(via ruok.org.au/stories)
Be moved by Justin’s powerful, life-changing story:
We have a simple message: Let’s talk when things get tough. Please share this to keep the conversation going.
For support at any time of day or night, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467. If life is in danger, call 000 or go directly to emergency services.
For more info, visit ruok.org.au.
