“I suddenly realised the extent of anxiety issues in the industry and reached out to RUOK? to see how I could help,” she said.
“I took part in Conquer Kozi, an 18km trek to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko while helping raise much needed funds and awareness for RUOK? and then continued to create awareness through my RUOK? Hospitality campaign.”
Now an RUOK? Ambassador, Julie-Anne said reaching out to others was more important than ever.
“There are nine suicides a day in Australia and 75 per cent are males,” she said.
“Suicide is the leading cause of death among 15 to 44-year-olds, double the national road toll and these figures are only from 2019; we can’t imagine what they will look like after Covid with Lifeline presently receiving over 3,500 calls a day.
“We also know that one in four Australians is lonely with no one to speak to so it’s vital that we look out for each other.”
Julie-Anne said when you ask someone, ‘are you ok?’, it makes them feel connected and supported especially if you’ve noticed that something is not quite right.
“If they’ve disconnected on social media or they are over-sharing or maybe they’re moody and losing interest in what they normally enjoy, reach out and ask the question,” she said.
“Then you must be prepared to listen with intent and encourage them to get help; then make sure you check back with them.
“Be a good human; it’s all about connection.”
