Follow simple steps to help save a life
ASK “R U OK?”, then listen without judgment, encourage action, and check in.
These are the simple steps that could save a life.
University of Southern Queensland hosted events at each of its campuses on September 13 in support of national suicide prevention charity R U OK?
Dedicated staff were available to share tips on how to have meaningful conversations with others, providing leaflets on areas important to mental health including how to get better sleep, how to calm down quickly, coping strategies, and the difference between good and bad stress.
USQ health promotion officer Katie Levitt said it was all about bringing people together in a relaxed environment to learn and talk to each other.
“R U OK? Day’s message is so important, especially since suicide is a leading cause of death in young people,” Miss Levitt said.
“The purpose of our activities was to empower students and staff to simply ask ‘are you ok’. It can make all the difference.”
The USQ Toowoomba event featured stalls from local health organisations, an inflatable obstacle course, live music, healthy free food and snacks.
Miss Levitt said the event was also an opportunity to ensure students were aware of the ongoing resources available to them, including free health checks for the USQ community as part of the University’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2016 – 2020.
This conversation opportunity was followed by a panel discussion and webinar with guest speakers, who covered topics including suicide within LGBTIQ community and prevalence of suicide amongst males.
R U OK? Day is held each year in September to encourage people to meaningfully connect with others around them and support anyone struggling with life issues.