Taking Action Together: MPC Kinetic supports local 'R U Ok?' event in Surat

This September, Surat Aboriginal Corporation (SAC) with the support of MPC Kinetic, will host an ‘R U Ok?’ event in Surat to generate awareness and promote social connectedness within the community.

In advocating action initiated by the not-for-profit organisation, R U Ok? the Surat event will include games, activities, guest speakers and afternoon tea to help foster a more connected community and promote suicide prevention initiatives.

SAC Manager, Jessica Walsh said events are a great way to bring the community together and educate people about the health benefits of connectedness.

“Our aim is to inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with people around them; find out how they might be able to help a mate and ensure those who are struggling with life, find the care and support they need.

“We want to encourage people to trust their instincts when they think someone’s not ok,” she said.

With suicide remaining the leading cause of death for Australian’s aged between 15 and 44[i], young Australians are more likely to take their own life than die in motor vehicle accidents[ii].

"Australia's suicide rate is set to go up 40% in the next decade"

Even more alarmingly, Australia’s suicide rate is set to go up 40% in the next decade unless risk factors such as debt, isolation and loneliness are addressed, according to a research paper conducted by KPMG on behalf of Suicide Australia.[iii]

Not for profit organisation, R U Ok? however, is dedicated to inspiring people to really talk and help build more connected communities to prevent suicide.

They suggest, following these simple steps could change a life:

• Step one: Start the conversations - Ask R U OK? or simply use any words that you feel comfortable with. Be relaxed, friendly and concerned in your approach.

• Step two: Listen without judgement and don’t try and solve the problem. Just be there.

• Step three: Encourage action, whether that is telling someone else or making an appointment with their doctor or getting more information from a service online.

• Step four: Follow up. Check in with them and stay in touch. Put a note in your diary to call them in a week, or if they’re really struggling follow up with them sooner.

Jessica further said, “R U Ok? provides assistance and useful resources to help organisations like SAC hold events and raise awareness.

“And with support of businesses like MPC Kinetic, we can make a greater effort in advancing a world where we’re all connected and protected from suicide.”

The official R U Ok? Day this year, is September 12, however, SAC’s event will be held next week on Thursday, 19 September from 3:00 – 4:30pm at the Rec Oval in Surat.

For further information about the event, please contact Chloe from the Surat Aboriginal Corporation on 4626 5288.

If you’re worried about someone and feel urgent professional support is needed, please contact your local doctor or the agencies below.

[i] https://www.lifeline.org.au/about-lifeline/lifeline-information/statistics-on-suicide-in-australia

[ii] https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/clinical-resources/suicide-self-harm/facts-about-suicide-in-australia

[iii] https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2019/sep/10/australias-suicide-rate-to-rise-40-if-emerging-risks-such-as-debt-not-tackled