Concerned by the number of men killing themselves, a community group is seeking 50 young men from the Peel Region to join its fight against suicide by taking part in a new workshop.
Youth Focus established the Young Men’s Project in 2013 to encourage young males to work together on insightful and effective suicide prevention concepts.
Men from the Peel region aged between 18 and 25 will work together to create real solutions to combat the growing number of Australian males taking their own lives.
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Youth Focus has partnered with Alcoa Australia to stage the Peel forum, which will be held on April 21 from 10am to 4pm at Bendigo Bank Stadium, Mandurah.
Each participant will be paid $100 to be involved in the day.
Youth Focus Community Engagement general manager Chris Harris said the Young Men’s Project took a practical approach to reduce suicide, by inspiring young men and their mates to help each other.
“We know young men in Australia are three times more likely to take their own lives than young women,” Mr Harris said.
“That is why we need to help them feel comfortable and confident to start conversations about mental health with their mates.
“The Young Men’s Project is about creating a space where young men can openly discuss and prototype mental health strategies relevant to their own communities.
“They can be the simplest of acts, like a community dinner, a community chat or any conduit that allows young men to let those closest know they may be doing it tough.”
Latest statistics show 54 young people aged between 15 and 24 took their own lives in Western Australia in 2016.
For every suicide, another 20 people attempt to take their own lives.
To register to take part in the Mandurah Young Men’s Project on April 21, visit https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/the-young-mens-project-workshop-tickets-44134269789.
If you or someone you know needs urgent support please contact the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467, the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
