Kelly Marson
Hey there, I’m Kelly Marson, the Intake/Community Engagement Worker for the Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub in Western Victoria – a program that provides a wide range of supports for people experiencing psychological distress or mental health concerns.
I would like to give you some insight into the communities I support in Western Victoria.
Warrnambool, Hamilton, Portland, and surrounding rural areas in Western Victoria are witnessing concerning declines in mental health, resulting in increasing suicide rates.
In very remote areas, the suicide rate is 2.3 times higher compared to major cities. What’s also troubling is that 40% of people with mental health issues in rural and regional Victoria are not receiving mental health support.
We can effectively prevent suicide by prioritising suicide prevention training for these individuals and communities. Through the training, they will be prepared to offer essential support and facilitate safe conversations and interventions about suicide.
Last year, donors raised funds for suicide prevention education, and I seized the opportunity to be part of this important training. Now, I can support individuals who are considering suicide by engaging in conversation and connecting them with support services. I can also educate and empower others to do the same.
Knowing the signs and how to respond to someone in distress, can help prevent suicide.
Noticing the positive influence this training has on communities; it’s now my focus to teach our farming communities the essential tools and skills for engaging in safe conversations with those contemplating suicide. It’s not just clinicians who can participate in suicide prevention training and save lives – everyone can.
Your donation, no matter the amount, is greatly appreciated. By contributing, you are helping us to bring this life-saving training to more communities where the need is critical.
Together, we can strive for zero suicides in Australia. With everyone’s participation, we can make this happen.
