TODAY one question could save a life.
Each year more than 2000 Australians commit suicide and men are about four times more likely to die by suicide than women.
R U OK? Day is a national event that aims to prevent suicide by encouraging people to connect with others and stop a small problem become a bigger one.
Lifeline Central Victoria chief executive officer Clive Custance said the key to preventing suicide was talking about it.
“If you saw a friend who looked physically ill you would do something and ask them if they were OK,” he said. “But we don’t do it if someone is not themselves or seems down.
“The sooner someone accesses help or talks to someone the better they become.
“If they don’t talk they can end up isolated even if they are surrounded by friends and family.”
Mr Custance said the key was talking about problems before they became too big and overwhelming.
“R U OK? gives the invitation to talk. People caught with suicidal thoughts and chronic isolation can be a big driver for suicide.
“Today is important if we care about looking after each other as a community.”
Earlier this year the federal government tabled the Before it’s too late report by the Standing Committee for Health and Ageing, which found that suicide was the biggest killer of young people in rural and regional areas.
Anyone needing support should contact Kids Help Line on 1800 55 1800, Lifeline on 13 11 14, Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 or MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78.
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