THE Southern Downs Suicide Prevention and Support Group will hold a morning tea event on 28 June from 9am at The Falls Cafe, Killarney.
The group was formed by Warwick residents John and Ann Felton following the loss of their daughter, according to group member and event organiser Dianne Mead.
“The morning tea initiative is a perfect opportunity to enfold oneself in the nurturing space of people who sincerely relate with each other,” she said.
“The event provides the space to meet and greet and/or be in your own space in a safe and supportive environment – to connect, share, simply be, support or find support.
“The morning kicks off at 9am up at The Falls Cafe, Queen Mary Falls, Killarney, with morning tea provided by The Falls Cafe. BYO chair and rug.
“The agenda consists of a few phases for those desiring to partake in one, all, none or simply be an observer.
“For those unsure of what to expect, morning events commence with a short walk in small groups to the observation platform over the falls, with individuals and parties given the opportunity to go through a short guided process facilitated by representatives of Headspace. You will then return to the lawn area at The Falls Cafe, to mingle and share if desirous, there will be music throughout the morning with a lighting of candle ceremony available in memory of loved ones, or for such private purpose as one chooses.”
Dianne said speakers would include John Felton and a representative of Headspace.
“I have been asked to provide the audio, music, some singing and to incorporate a guided relaxation process,” she said.
“I am privileged and proud to represent DJ Vince and Mixed Generations at this event. It is a cause close to all of our hearts for individual reasons, with each member having genuine experience with the topic of suicide, suicide prevention, mental health, grief and loss.”
She said during the morning, those in attendance will have the opportunity to speak and/or engage in prayer with representatives of various denominations including Elders and representatives of the Indigenous and Torres Strait Island Community, the Catholic Diocese, Uniting Church, Pentecostal and Anglican representative Archdeacon Rod McDonald attending.
“My ‘why’ in a nutshell – I’ve been there,” she admitted.
“As both a person who thought of taking one’s life as an answer, clawed my out of that spiralling well and have been witness to others who weighed up suicide as an option.
“Mental health does not discriminate, although through my studies and trainings it has been revealed it is more prevalent in lower socio economic demographics, the thought of committing suicide enters the minds of more people than those who care to admit. Reasons are numerous and varied from accident and illness to financial hardship, battling farmers, victims of abuse, incarceration, despair and loneliness to name a few.
“It is crucial we come together as a community, openly speak about the topic of suicide and address matters affecting mental health to provide support for loss and those grieving.”
For inquiries, please contact John and Ann Felton on 4661 8679. Headspace, the government initiative for youth can be contacted on www.ruok.org.au/
A conversation could change a life.
