Ron Lane
To say that it is a massive community concern would have to be the understatement of the year. I along with a lot of other Australians feel that it is definitely now time for us to speak up louder than ever. And well you may ask, what exactly is this subject of massive concern? The answer is explained in one word – suicide.
In what would have to be a great example of what’s on the other side of the coin, the Cooroy Impact Boxing and Fitness Club hung up their gloves, donated their time and premises on Saturday morning in a massive show of support for an organisation known as Safe TALK.
Guest speaker Tomas Passegg, a social worker with five years’ training and experience, and presently working with people with problems stated, “Not talking about it (suicide) has not worked, so let’s try something different. We have noticed that people are starting to become more aware and are now starting to talk.”
In the past open talk has been severely restricted by stigma but now that stigma must be removed.
The goal of this organisation is to make people conscious of suicide prevention, something that is of grave importance not only in our community, but also throughout the country, and sadly, it is not restricted to the older generation- but also now the very young.
The name Safe TALK has an interesting context.
The word Safe is self-explanatory, however, the word TALK in capital letters and taking each letter separately, conveys a message of the utmost importance. The letter T stands for Tell, the A stands for Ask, L stands for Listen and the K for keep safe.
Tell – as clearly and directly as possible.
Ask- Are you thinking about suicide?
Listen – let’s talk about this. I am listening. This is important.
Keep safe – We need extra help. I want to connect you with someone who can help you keep safe.
The message that came through loud and clear was the necessity for good communication, knowing not only how to speak but, above all, how to convey your message of sincerity and genuine help.
Also, that vital factor of follow -up. This you can do by contacting some of the following – bearing in mind at all times that you’re not alone.
In our region there is the Pomona Community House, 1 Memorial Ave, Pomona 4568, ph 5485 2427 and Nambour Community Centre, 2 Shearer Street Nambour 4560, ph 5441 4724.
In case of emergency, Kids Helpline 1800 551 800, Men’s Helpline 1800 551 800, Lifeline 13 11 14 and QLife 3pm till midnight,1800 184 527.
In a Communities Matter fact sheet it states: There are many people who can help. Most important are the people ‘’there,’’ including family and friends. We can all be part of creating a suicide safe community.
In his opening address to the meeting, organiser Ben Burns said, “It is time to bring suicide out of the shadows.’’
How right he is! And this, should be just the start.
