Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has one question for the Bundaberg and Burnett community today, that’s R U OK?
Today is R U OK Day, and Mr Bennett said it’s now more important than ever that we ask the question, with drought gripping the region.
“Our region is doing it tough, there is no question about it,” he said.
“That’s why it’s vitally important we ask R U OK today?
“Mental illness touches people from all ages and walks of life.
“We know that the drought is taking a toll on our community and today we can all help each other by asking one question.
“You don’t need to be an expert to reach out – just a good friend and a great listener.”
Australia’s suicide rates sit above the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) global average at 12.9 per 100,000.
Reports reveal 50 per cent of people who die from suicide in Australia each year only sought help in the last six weeks from health services before their death.
Mr Bennett said we need to work on getting the support services to those who need it.
“In rural communities, sometimes the support services are not there,’ he said.
“Sometimes the services struggle to keep up with demand.
“These services save lives, we need more help in regional Queensland and we need the funding for these vital services that assist people before they reach a point of desperation.”
Vice President of Bundaberg Chamber of Commerce Tim Sayre said everyone can feel the pressure.
“As Bundaberg is an agri-based economy, when our farmers struggle, everybody feels it,” he said.
“This mental stress flows through all sectors of our community, which is why days like RUOK day are so important and the Chamber is encouraging people everywhere who might be struggling to speak up and ask for help.”
12/09/19