The restrictions have eased somewhat for those of us living in regional Victoria thank goodness. I temper my excitement at being able to go out for a coffee and sit down to a meal, because there are still many in Melbourne who are as yet unable to do this. But the number of infected cases are reducing so it surely won’t be very long before the Melburnians join us in a little more freedom.
We’ve had another three months of treading water, waiting for the day that we can put all this behind us and begin to live again apart from our bubble. And although there have been times when I have longed to be able to meet up with friends, overall the restrictions haven’t been too onerous. But I am grateful that I have a partner to talk to, where there are many who have been totally isolated with only phone calls, social media and television to keep them company.
Last week was National Suicide Prevention Week , which incorporated National Suicide Prevention Day, and we were subjected to lots of posts and articles on suicide awareness and prevention. But for those in stage four lockdown the easing — even slightly — may not be enough to eliminate their hardship. But I think that the lifeboat is in sight and there will be a bit more treading water until we gain the safety of that.
Sometimes the hardest part can be the last little bit and although many will manage to get there with ease, some will be left floundering despite the finish line being in sight. So that is where the rest of us get to play a role. We need to keep helping those who are struggling, even though it isn’t RU OK day or National Suicide Prevention Week anymore – it is still Suicide Prevention month. We can still be of help to those who need it.
So let’s just continue to be aware that there are many out there — probably more that we realise because so many more are working from home — who need help. Call someone you know who is still in lockdown — just for a chat and catch up as that may be all they need. Don’t be afraid to ask how they are coping.
Whilst it is all too easy to forget about others needs when we are isolated in our homes, sometimes making that phone call will help us just as much as the person we are calling. So give it a go and make your day as well as someone else’s.
#copingsuicide #blacklivesmatter #suicideprevention #alllivesmatter
copingwithsuicide 