It's time we talked about the black dog and elephant in the room.
Mental health is often a tough subject to discuss, especially for country people, but I think it's necessary to address such a delicate subject.
That's because more and more Australians are feeling isolated due to this global pandemic we are all experiencing coupled with the normal stresses everyday life brings.
Statistics show bush people have higher levels of life satisfaction compared with those in the city, are more likely to have increased community interconnectedness and social cohesion, as well as higher levels of community participation and volunteering.
However, statistics published by Lifeline show people in rural areas are twice as likely to die by suicide.
It's a harrowing stat, especially when you consider nine Aussies die by suicide every day, twice the rate of the road toll.
So I hear you asking, why is this the case?
It's a good question and I don't think it's a secret people in rural areas feel different pressures to those in the big smoke.
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So much of a grower or producer's fate is decided by the weather and that has never been so keenly felt than during the state's recent drought.
Coupled with the challenge of distance and isolation, which comes hand-in-hand with living in the bush, it's easy to see why people may be having a tough time.
Then there is the outdated and antiquated stigma of just "sucking it up", "hardening up", or "bottling in your feelings".
Entrenched by generations before us, this sort of stigma has no doubt led to the fact that 75 per cent of Australians who take their own life are male and men aged over 85 experience the highest age-specific rate of suicide.
Another key reason for the issue being so prevalent in the bush may be a lack of access to mental health resources.
We all have stories of difficulties trying to access medical support in the bush and while our frontline workers are doing an amazing job it is no doubt a factor.
So, loyal reader, I bet you're thinking, what is being done to help rectify this issue?
The answer is plenty by a variety of groups such as Lifeline, Beyond Blue and batyr.
Beyond Blue board director Derek Schoen said the organisation's fresh program New Access was aimed at supporting regional people.
"It is a bit like a personal trainer for your mental health," Mr Schoen said.
"You don't need a referral from your GP or anything like that, you just call us and we will put you in touch with someone who will assist you for as long as you need.
"A service like this is crucial because mental health is often an immediate need that has to be filled and with the difficulty country people can sometimes have seeing a GP, it can sometimes be a bit too late, so this program is great in helping fill that void."
Now that we have looked at the help that's on offer, I think it is equally poignant to leave you with some simple things each of us can do to help someone who may need it.
"It's a simple as just asking 'are you OK?'," Mr Schoen said.
"If someone is not communicating the way they normally would, that can be a telltale sign that they might need some support.
"Just asking that simple question can really make a big difference and be the first step in someone getting help.
"The important thing to remember about that is asking for help isn't a sign of weakness, in fact it is a sign of strength, a sign that you are taking control and should be something that is really encouraged."
One last stat to leave you with published by Lifeline. For each life lost to suicide, the impacts are felt by up to 135 people, including family members, work colleagues, friends and first responders.
So please remember to look out for one another, remember there is help out there and never be afraid to ask for some support.
- If you or anyone you know needs support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
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