
Letters: Don't be afraid of the suicide conversation
Letters: THIS year, more than three million Australians will experience depression or anxiety or both. Today, seven Australians will die by suicide
It may be someone in your family, a person you work with or a mate on your footy team. You may have noticed something is amiss, but you're not sure if you should say something or mind your business.
You're not the only one who feels this way. Many people don't know what to say or worry they could make the situation worse by approaching the person.
However, reaching out to someone you're worried about is often the catalyst for that person starting on the road to recovery.
To help people to have what could be a difficult chat, beyondblue has produced a guide on how to Have the Conversation.
The guide, which was funded with donations from the Movember Foundation, explains how having a conversation can help people feel less alone and more supported in getting help for anxiety and depression, and what to do if your attempt to have the conversation is met with a bad reaction.
If you are struggling a bit, but don't know how to reach out for support, or you're concerned about someone else, but don't know what to say, visit www.beyond blue.org.au/conversations.
You can speak to a mental health professional any time by contacting beyondblue on 1300 22 4636.
It's better to put your hand up if you need help, or lend a hand if someone is struggling, than not to say anything at all.
So please, check out our resources and have the conversation.
GEORGIE HARMAN
beyondblue