R U OK?
10-September-2012
“Are you ok?”
This simple question is what Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton would like people in Western NSW to ask those around them on Thursday 13th September to support R U OK? Day.
Mr Coulton said that since beginning in 2009, R U OK? Day has been gaining more awareness about preventing suicide across Australia each year with one in five Australians participating in the day.
“On average six people take their lives every day in Australia, which is higher than the nation’s road toll.”
“Suicide is a major health concern, it currently ranks 15th in the overall causes of death in Australia, and unfortunately men are three times more likely to end their own lives than women.”
Mr Coulton said it was important to reach out and connect with family members, friends and colleagues who may find it difficult to talk about their emotional wellbeing.
“People who are going through a rough time find it difficult to express their feelings and we, as family members, friends or colleagues need to learn to ask questions when we feel something is wrong.”
“By just asking one simple question it could stop a little problem from turning into a bigger one.”
“So I ask everyone in Parkes Electorate to sit down with someone and ask ‘Are You OK?’. It is a very simple thing that could change a life,” said Mr Coulton.