World Suicide Prevention Day and R U OK? Day: Starting the conversation

What does support look like in everyday life?

To mark World Suicide Prevention Day and R U OK? Day, we asked our community one simple question at Westfield Woden: what's one small way you show up for someone you care about?

The answers were a reminder that connection often starts with the simplest of conversations.

This year's World Suicide Prevention Day theme is Changing the Narrative on Suicide, with a call to action to Start the Conversation. At our community stall, people shared the small ways they support their family, friends, colleagues and neighbours.

Some people wrote about checking in on a mate after a rough week or sending a text just to let someone know they're thinking of them. Others talked about spending time together outdoors, whether that was a walk, a trip to the gym or a weekend camping adventure with friends.

One message kept appearing throughout the day: telling

the people you care about that you love them. Several visitors shared that they make a point of ending a phone call, visit or conversation with those three words.

Many people also spoke about the importance of making space for honest conversations. Taking the time to listen, checking in when something feels different, or creating opportunities for people to talk openly about how they're feeling can make a meaningful difference.

As World Suicide Prevention Day reminds us, support often begins with a conversation.

If someone comes to mind while you're reading this, consider reaching out. Send a message, make a phone call, organise a catch-up or ask how they're going. Small gestures of connection can brighten someone's day and remind them they're not alone.

Support available

If you're supporting someone who is experiencing suicidal distress, Minds Together is a free program for family members, friends and carers. Delivered face-to-face and online, the program provides practical skills, confidence and support while caring for someone you love.

If you're looking for support for your own mental health and wellbeing, Thrive Together offers group activities, social connection and individual support for adults aged 18 to 64 who are experiencing mental health challenges and are not eligible for the NDIS.

If you or someone you know needs support:

Lifeline: 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
13YARN (for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples): 13 92 76

If you are in immediate danger, please call 000.