East Kimberley College students mark R U OK? Day as part of national bid to reduce suicide rates

East Kimberley College students donned their brightest yellow outfits last Thursdayto promote mental health awareness and suicide prevention through the celebration of national R U OK? Day.

Held on September 9 each year, R U OK? Day encourages people to notice signs of poor mental health in friends, family and colleagues and offer support to those experiencing difficulties.

Run by suicide prevention charity R U OK?, the day aims to reduce Australia’s suicide rate of eight lives taken each day.

EKC student service program co-ordinator Geoff Burrows said students took part in a range of lunch-time activities to mark the day and promote its message, including selling 450 home-made cupcakes.

“The College is keen to acknowledge and promote the importance of people checking-in on and supporting one another when things may not be going so well,” Mr Burrows said.

“An awareness and willingness to seek support in times of need begins with education - as a community we can make a difference.”