Staff at headspace Bathurst are encouraging people to talk about mental health, whether it be with a professional or another acquaintance.
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This comes in wake of a major shift in policy from the nation’s leading mental health bodies, who are encouraging ordinary people to ask their family or friends if they are thinking about suicide.
Clinical leader at headspace Bathurst, Gerrit Willemse, said it was important for people to take the opportunity to talk to someone about their mental health.
“If you can’t speak to a professional, speak to someone,” he said.
“Talking to a mate is one way of being heard.
“When people speak up, they find there is actually more support than what they expected.
“We need to break the stigma around mental health, that it is actually okay to talk about it, and we’re actually seeing a shift and change, that it is okay to talk about mental health.
“We need someone to talk to from time to time.”
The public has previously received mixed messages about whether if it is okay to ask people about suicidal thoughts.
However, following new research, seven top suicide prevention organisations - including headspace - have announced a change in approach.
The new #YouCanTalk campaign urges everyone, not just professionals, to ask family or friends if they are thinking about suicide.
It also warns people against attempting to talk their loved ones out of suicide, following evidence that shows it can actually make people feel worse about themselves.
Signs someone might be at risk of suicide include withdrawing from social activities, change in mood, disinterest in maintaining personal hygiene, uncharacteristically reckless behaviour and talking about death, suicide and wanting to die.
If you feel uncertain and that your friend or loved one may be at risk, do ask the question and be prepared for the answer to be yes, before listening with empathy and without judgement.