World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10): Causes for Mental Health Awareness

Today marks World Suicide Prevention Day which is a day that focuses on creating greater awareness of suicide and suicide prevention, change the way suicide is understood and discussed in the community, and connects people to vital support services.

The impact of suicide is direct, far-reaching, and long-lasting. They are felt by families, friends, work colleagues and the broader community.

While not all suicides are preventable, supporting individuals and communities who are at risk to seek and receive help can reduce the number of people taking their lives.

It is no doubt that COVID-19 has played a big role in the decline of mental health for individuals and communities although there are many people who going out of their way to help those most at-risk or in need.

Ahead of today’s awareness day, 42 tradies challenged themselves to complete 100 days without alcohol to fundraise for non-profit organisation, Mates in Construction.

Mates of Construction advocate for men’s mental health and work to prevent suicide rates among those employed within the construction industry.

According to 2020 research by Central Queensland University¹, suicide rates among those employed in construction are much higher compared to other Australian occupational groups.

Campaign creator and Operations Director at Melchor Contracting, Dylan Ogilvie says, “I have been working within the construction industry for almost 20 years and unfortunately I have seen the direct impact of suicide a few times. I want to ensure we make a change as the statistics around this preventable disease are what made my ears prick up.”

The Dry Spell for Mates fundraiser was a huge success exceeding its goal by raising $30,800.

Here are some more wonderful causes raising awareness about mental health and action against suicide:

• https://www.mycause.com.au/events/rideagainstsuicide
• https://www.mycause.com.au/page/234320/be-the-light-2020-mental-health-suicide-awareness
• https://www.mycause.com.au/page/212454/suicide-prevention-in-honour-of-tess

Do you have a cause that you want to raise awareness for and support?

There are plenty of ways to give back to a cause or charity that you’re passionate about.
Simply sign up for free and start your own crowdfunding campaign.

You can find more charity causes to support here: https://www.mycause.com.au/charity-cause

Resources:
¹ Central Queensland University 2020, ‘An Investigation Into Higher Suicide Rate in Australian Construction Industry’, Link to Research.