People living in South-East NSW and experiencing suicidal distress or recovering from a suicide attempt can now call on the support of two Rural Counsellors.
Southern NSW Local Health District recently recruited the specialist counsellors, with one based in Cooma and covering the Snowy Monaro region and the other based in Eurobodalla and covering the coastal region.
District Director of Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drugs, Damien Eggleton, said the positions form part of a broader network of suicide prevention programs and services being rolled out across the District, as part of the NSW Government’s Towards Zero strategy.
“It’s great that the Towards Zero Suicides initiative has brought these two positions to our District. They will play an important role in supporting our community’s wellbeing,” Mr Eggleton said.
“They will provide therapeutic support to people impacted by suicide, including safety planning and referrals. They will also work closely with other local services to respond to the needs of the community and improve overall access to care.”
Rural Counsellor for the Eurobodalla, Julie, said that those in this role can provide a confidential, safe and caring space for people to feel respected and listened to.
“Some of the people we talk to are experiencing stress, while others feel lonely, even though they may have friends or family nearby. Some people feel like they are a burden on others. Counselling can help people to develop strategies to relieve pressure and improve connections and emotional wellbeing,” Julie said.
Rural Counsellor for Snowy Monaro, Samara, said the positions will help some people overcome barriers to accessing services due to remoteness.
“Rural Counsellors are local and accessible. We make it was easy as possible for people to find us and meet with us close to their home,” Samara said.
With suicide rates higher in rural and regional areas than in capital cities, the positions are part of the NSW Government’s $6.75 million investment in Rural Counsellors with expertise in preventing suicide.
If you, or someone you know, is thinking about suicide or experiencing a personal crisis or distress, please seek help immediately in a life-threatening situation by calling 000 or seek support though one of these services: Lifeline 13 11 14 | Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 | Contact the Rural Counsellors via NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511
To all those who are struggling, please don’t endure your struggles alone. Things can get better and support is available.
If life is in danger, please call 000 (Triple Zero). For anyone who is in crisis, please call: @LifelineAustralia on 13 11 14 or @KidsHelpline on 1800 55 1800. To connect with specialist mental health services, call the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511.
