WA Football's One Life RoundWednesday, May 4, 2016 - 1:15 PM

Players across Western Australia from Year 8 and above will be provided with blue armbands this weekend for WA Football’s One Life Round.

One Life is a West Australian initiative to strengthen families, communities and workplaces, improve mental health and build resilience to prevent suicide.

The West Australian Football Commission’s (WAFC) partnership with One Life will use the blue arm bands and football as a vehicle to raise awareness of mental health and suicide prevention and reduce the stigma associated with discussing these topics.

Every year suicide accounts for 32% of deaths for males aged 15-24. It’s not just men either; there has been a recent spike in suicide among young females.

Former West Coast Eagles premiership player Adam Selwood is spreading the message as WA Football’s One Life Ambassador alongside Netball WA One Life Ambassador Courtney Bruce.

The WAFC is also delivering free mental health and suicide awareness training through the Live Life Ambassador program which includes 90 minute sessions that provide the knowledge to recognise if someone is showing signs of mental health issues, how to properly approach them, along with where to direct them for the best help available.

Education sessions are being delivered this year at all Level 1 coaching courses. Any Club wishing to attend a session is encouraged to contact Tayla Daniele on tdaniele@wafc.com.au to register their interest.

The WAFC, in partnership with One Life, has also developed a risk management plan to ensure that the appropriate support is provided throughout One Life Round and during the week leading up to it. Additional counselling support can also be provided if there is an immediate and acute need identified at any of the participating clubs.

Need help?

Suicide Call Back Line: 1300 659 467

LifeLine: 13 11 14

Samaritans 24/7: 135 247

24/7 Youthline: 1800 198 313

www.onelifewa.com.au

Photo: WA Football One Life Ambassadors Adam Selwood and Courtney Bruce. Picture: Ashton Murphy