2020 has brought its fair share of challenges, which have resulted in changes for all of us. Today is R U OK? Day, and World Suicide Prevention Day, when we’re encouraged to take a moment to reflect on how those around us, in our workplaces and communities, might be getting on. If you have noticed changes in someone, or have a feeling something is not quite right, then take a moment to ask them if they are ok.
Over recent weeks, we have been working with MATES in Construction to deliver suicide prevention training to our field staff. The training is intended to break down taboos about talking about suicide, and provides preliminary guidance to workers on how to have conversations with each other about mental health and suicide.
Following this training, nearly 40 members of our field staff chose to undertake further training as Connectors (a person who is trained to keep someone safe in a crisis and help connect that individual to appropriate specialist care).
To check if somebody is OK;
* Pick a good time and place to ask “Are you OK?”
* Listen with an open mind
* Encourage them to take action
* Check in later to see how they are doing
