Shellharbour City Council is encouraging the community to participate in R U OK? Day on Thursday 12 September.
National suicide prevention charity, R U OK?, has a vision to inspire and empower meaningful connections, as well as support anyone struggling with life.
Come along to the Shellharbour Civic Centre wearing yellow to take part in a 1km walk around the City Centre.
The walk will begin at 11 am in the front courtyard of the Civic Centre and will finish at the Civic Centre with games and activities prepared for all to enjoy.
Shellharbour Mayor Marianne Saliba said that R U OK? Day was a great reminder to check-in with loved ones and fellow community members.
"R U OK? Day is a valuable initiative that addresses the very important issue of suicide prevention in our community," Cr Saliba said.
"I am so proud that Shellharbour City Council is actively promoting mental health and suicide prevention. Suicide is a major public health concern and affects people of all ages and socio-economic groups.
"It is vital to our health and wellbeing that we feel connected. Through the simple act of starting and engaging in regular conversation, we hold the power to significantly change another person's life."
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, over a five-year period from 2013 to 2017, the average number of suicide deaths per year was 2,918.
If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or BeyondBlue on 1300 22 4636. If life is in danger, call 000.
- Lifeline: www.lifeline.org.au
- Beyond Blue: www.beyondblue.org.au
- Suicide Prevention Australia: www.suicidepreventionaust.org
- Black Dog Institute: www.blackdoginstitute.org.au
