Time to ask R U OK?
Representatives of the Jewish Suicide Prevention Strategy participated in the Eastern Sydney Suicide Prevention Walk on Sunday.
THE vision of R U OK? Day, which falls today (Thursday) is a world where everyone is connected and protected from suicide.
JewishCare, along with the 20 organisations that make up the Jewish Suicide Prevention Strategy (JSPS) committee, are not only asking R U OK? today, but work throughout the year to ensure that hundreds of community members are trained in mental health first aid.
“By upskilling our community we can play an active role in improving basic mental health literacy and ensuring that we are able to help,” Claire Gil-Munoz, manager of mental health and wellbeing at JewishCare, said.
She said the starting point is knowing what to do when you think something isn’t right. “Often it’s that feeling in your heart that someone close to you has had a change in behaviour or simply that they aren’t okay,” she said.
“It’s so important to start the conversation. While it’s difficult for both parties, only by listening and taking action can we begin to change outcomes and the general health of the people around us.”
JSPS will soon be rolling out an app to assist people who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts, feelings or distress. App features will include a self-assessment, mental health tools and where to get help including culturally specific services and a mental health safety plan.
Representatives of JSPS participated in the Eastern Sydney Suicide Prevention Walk on Sunday, while JewishCare hosted a breakfast today (Thursday) for people who have trained with and supported JSPS and completed the mental health first aid course and Mindframe media training.
If you or anyone you know needs help, please contact: Lifeline: 13 11 14
Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467.
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