WAFC supports R U OK dayThursday, September 11, 2014 - 4:49 PM

As part of the West Australian Football Commission's commitment to suicide prevention, the WAFC staff had a special morning tea to recognise R U OK day.

The partnership with onelife includes programs that raise awareness and reduce the stigma that surrounds suicide.

This includes educating our coaches in mental health issues, Live Life ambassador training designed to help club volunteers identify some of the signs and symptoms of mental illness, and refer club members to support, equipping coaches with the knowledge to recommend help for players if required, and promotion of suicide prevention education to the football fraternity at a range of high-profile and community based events.

Suicide is an issue that affects thousands of West Australians each year either directly or indirectly and accounts for about 27 per cent of all deaths among young men aged 15 to 24.

Football has a strong influence over young males and by targeting this community the WAFC can help break down the stigma around seeking help for mental health and other problems in this very influential community.

West Australian Football Commission Chairman Frank Cooper said the WAFC was delighted to partner with One Life to assist in spreading this important message and implementing suicide prevention strategies within the WA community.

“Football plays a pivotal role in building healthier, happier communities and assisting with suicide prevention programs will be an important component of our ‘Footy Plus’ philosophy,” Mr Cooper said.

Last year saw 50 ambassadors trained as part of the inaugural partnership program. A further 100 will be trained during 2014-15. Further initiatives as part of the football partnership will be announced over the coming months.

For more information on the One Life program and suicide prevention visit: www.onelifewa.com.au

Need help?

Lifeline 13 11 14

Beyondblue 1300 22 4636

Suicide Callback Service 1300 659 467