WE are often told we live in one of the luckiest parts of The Lucky Country, blessed with beaches and beautiful people, walks and wildlife and plenty of ways to get out of our own heads.
Yet suicide remains the leading cause of death in Australians aged 15 to 44, and the northern beaches is absolutely not immune. I've certainly lost some of my faves to mental illness.
It is heartening to hear from a bunch of dedicated locals trying to make a difference to the sad statistics, whether by starting social groups to encourage connection and conversation or hooking people up with support services. Men are particularly at risk and many we spoke to for this focus story reiterated that getting better begins with conversation.
Ask your mates how they are doing. Tell your friends and family if you think you may need a bit of help mentally. You'd be surprised at the difference it can make.
If you could do with some help, there are plenty of options. Here are just a few:
- Make an appointment with your local GP
- Have a chat with Lifeline: 131114
- Book into a One Eighty session aimed at young people: oneeighty.org.au
- Join a Mongrels Men activity or sport: mongrelsmen.com
- Find more services on Council's website
Have a great long weekend - hopefully you connect with some friends.
Kate Cox
Kate Cox is Head of Content and Head of Travel for ACM. She loves asking questions and telling stories and has been a journalist and editor for more than two decades.
Kate Cox is Head of Content and Head of Travel for ACM. She loves asking questions and telling stories and has been a journalist and editor for more than two decades.
