It has never been more important to ask family and friends R U OK? To mark R U OK? Day on Thursday the Country Fire Authority has urged people to reach out to others.
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CFA people culture and safety executive director Janelle Leonard said this year has been one of change, challenges and adjustments and the need for our communities to stay connected and feel supported has been more important than ever.
R U OK? chief executive officer Katherine Newton said we can be a safety net for people who might be struggling with life. "We need to be genuine when we ask R U OK? to let people know we're there to listen, that we won't judge them and that people can find pathways to support and recovery when they're struggling," Ms Newton said. "We're encouraging everyone to learn that there's more to say after R U OK? because a conversation really can change a life."
In Australia in 2018 3046 people died by suicide and its the leading cause of death among people aged 15-44.
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