CHRISTMAS and the holiday period can be a joyful time but it can also be stressful with many people experiencing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
The #YouCanTalk collaboration by nearly a dozen mental health and suicide prevention organisations across the nation is reminding anyone who is struggling that they are not alone.
Federal MP for Reid, Dr Fiona Martin, who formerly worked as a psychologist, says the #YouCanTalk campaign is needed during the holiday season.
She says every life lost to suicide is a tragedy, creating a ripple effect that flows through families, friendship groups, schools, workplaces and communities.
“It can be especially hard to cope with feelings of isolation, stress and poor mental health during the Christmas-New Year period,” Dr Martin said.
National Suicide Prevention Adviser Christine Morgan said it was important to have a conversation with any friend, family member or colleague you suspect may be having thoughts of suicide.
The main message is you don’t need to be a clinician, a GP, or a nurse to check-in with someone you are worried about.
“We know families, friends and communities are playing a critical role in suicide prevention,” she said.
“#YouCanTalk is about getting resources and tools into the hands of people who need them so they can navigate important conversations with people around them.”
Visit lifeinmindaustralia.com.au/youcantalk.
