A strong bond with another person can help protect against suicide, says a nurse at St John of God Hospital Richmond.
As part of today’s World Suicide Prevention Day, nurse Maria Field said social media and technology might make people feel they’re connected, but it was face-to-face personal contact that people needed.
‘‘Reaching out to those who have become disconnected and isolated can have a huge impact on saving someone’s life,’’ Mrs Field said.
‘‘Eight out of 10 people give warning signs and most of the time all they need is someone to talk to. It’s as simple as having a conversation with someone, exchanging a smile or even asking three simple words, are you okay?’’
Hawkesbury District Health Service psychologist and managing counsellor Steve Blunden said most people didn’t want to die, they just wanted to stop hurting.
‘‘It’s a desperate attempt to escape the suffering that has become unbearable, many wish there was an alternative,’’ Mr Blunden said.
‘‘Most people with suicidal thoughts just want to talk about it, they need someone to hear their pain and offer them some help. It can affect anyone from any social class, religion, age or society.’’
Suicide claims more than 65,000 Australian lives a year with more people dying by suicide than in car accidents.
People are urged to light a candle near a window at 8pm tonight to show support for suicide prevention, for the survivors of suicide and to remember a lost loved one.
R U OKAY day today (Thursday) encourages people to ask a simple question — are you okay?
They are three words that can have a major impact on someone’s life and create a caring and supportive environment.
GET HELP
- Beyondblue: 1300224636
- Lifeline: 131114
- Mental Health: 1800011511
- Kids helpline: 1800551800
- Emergency services: Triple-o
