COMMUNITY members across the Limestone Coast are gearing up for R U OK? Day tomorrow, with a number of events scheduled across the region.
Mental health support organisation StandBy is backing the cause, with coordinator Tracey Wanganeen inviting the community to get on board.
This year the region’s cafes are supporting the cause, with Cafe Melzar, Metro Bakery and Cafe and McCourts Garden Centre and Cafe hosting events.
Metro will host an event in conjunction with StandBy tomorrow afternoon to recognise the significance of R U OK? Day.
Business owner Toni Vorenas said the cafe had supported the initiative for as long as she could remember.
“As a business we run like a family,” she said.
“We make a point to always ask each other how we are and find out what is going on in our lives.
“It just comes naturally to extend that to our community as well through things like R U OK? Day.
“These days are so important because it is not just one day a year that we must look out for each other, but it serves as a reminder to check in with your friends and family every day.
“R U OK? Day helps start the conversation that we all need to have and we are so proud to support it each year.”
Ms Wanganeen said the day was a gentle way of giving people the encouragement to ask their loved ones, friends and work colleagues “are you okay?”.
“For those who have lost a loved one to suicide in the past it is especially important to offer support and friendship,” she said.
“R U OK? Day gives us a great opportunity to connect and to see if they are okay.
“Some conversations are too big for family and friends to tackle alone and it’s important to take the time to ask and listen.
“Often it is the small things that can make a difference, just taking the time to have a coffee and chat can make a massive difference in someone’s life.”
Ms Wanganeen said although regional communities were quite resistant in hard times, the day served as a reminder that it is okay to ask for help.
“Encouraging people to seek help can assist in reducing the stigma of suicide and mental illness in our communities,” she said.
“So we hope this small action from local cafes encourages those needing help to seek assistance and reduces the stigma of suicide for our community.”
