SEVENTY-TWO organisations have committed to the WA ‘One Life’ Suicide Prevention Strategy, a state government initiative to improve the awareness of mental health and suicide risk.
Radio stations, unions, law firms, government departments and mining companies have pledged to introduce suicide prevention and mental health policies in the workplace.
By signing a gold, silver or bronze pledge, the organisations agree to raise awareness, fund community plans and encourage employees to become a ‘One Life’ suicide prevention champion.
Mental Health Minister Helen Morton said mental health and suicide prevention policies needed to become commonplace and easily recognised at work.
“Suicide prevention is best achieved by everyone working together and learning how to recognise the signs of depression or mental illness,” Mrs Morton said.
“Most of us spend the majority of our day at work, so if people know what to look for they could save a workmate’s life.
“When a workplace implements preventative strategies, productivity increases, lives are saved and it creates a better working environment.”
The pledges run alongside the government‘s $13 million State Suicide Prevention Strategy, which has 21 community action plans across 106 communities.
