“ARE you okay?” should be the question on everyone’s lips this week as the community comes together to raise awareness of suicide and mental health.
Supporting the annual R U OK? Day on September 14, a selection of cafes throughout the region have agreed to take up the challenge and ask their customers the important question.
Working together with the cafes, StandBy Support after Suicide coordinator Tracey Wanganeen said it was a gentle way of giving customers the encouragement to also ask their loved ones, friends and work colleagues how they were coping with life.
“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 is important to take the time to ask and listen.”
Visiting a number of cafes over the past few weeks, Ms Wanganeen said she was thrilled Metro Bakery, Cafe Melzar and Cafe Belgiorno would take part.
“They were all really interested in getting involved and want to help those in the community who may be struggling,” she said.
“Asking that question really spreads awareness of what is actually going on.”
Ms Wanganeen said it was often the small things that can make a difference and just taking the time to have a coffee and chat can mean so much to someone who is doing it tough.
“We know that regional communities are often quite resilient, but also some of our community members need a gentle reminder that it is okay to ask for help and that being tough sometimes comes at a cost,” she said.
“Encouraging people to seek help can assist in reducing the stigma of suicide and mental illness in our community.
“I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to grab a coffee with someone they haven’t seen in a while and have a chat.
“We hope this small action from local cafes encourages those needing help to seek assistance and reduces the stigma of suicide for our community.”
Employees at the three cafes will wear R U OK? stickers tomorrow and have details on hand for support lines and websites for those in need of assistance.
A march has also been organised in the morning, leaving from the old Fidlers car park at around 11.30am with a gathering at the Cave Gardens afterwards.
Call the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 or Lifeline on 131 114 for additional support.
