World Suicide Prevention Day is on 10 September and the theme this year is Take a Minute, Change a Life.
The day is about taking the time to notice what’s happening with your family, friends and workmates. Are they struggling to cope? Are they having emotional outbursts or are uncharacteristically quiet? Maybe they are avoiding activities they usually enjoy, or you’ve noticed a loss of appetite.
If you’ve noticed something isn’t quite right with someone you know, take the time to ask them how they are going.
Our lives today are so busy, and we have a lot of distractions, but today is about taking a minute to look up from our devices and notice the people who are in our life. We can check in with them, ask them how they are doing, listen, and encourage them to tell their story. This small gesture can go a long way.
We need to look out for people who aren’t coping. Simply by taking a minute, you can change a life.
If you need support, call one of our SuicideLine Victoria counsellors on 1300 651 251.
If someone’s life is in danger, call 000.