Lifeline Australia has teamed up with Barbecues Galore during Men’s Health Week (13-19 June) to encourage Australian men to take the opportunity to spark potentially life-saving conversations around the humble backyard barbie.
In 2020, 2,384 men took their own lives, representing about three-quarters of all lives lost to suicide. Yet, only one in four men report that they would be likely to seek help from dedicated mental health services when they are struggling.
According Lifeline Australia CEO Colin Seery, the iconic barbecue makes an ideal setting to connect, check in and have meaningful conversations without fear of judgment or shame.
“This is all about helping people make that first step, which is often the hardest one,” he said.
“All it takes is ten minutes to cook, ten minutes to chat, and ten seconds to call.”
Mr Seery said the partnership aimed to break down stigma around asking for help – which can be as simple as having a yarn over a snag. Lifeline, Australia’s leading suicide prevention service, is available 24/7 for anyone who needs extra support, with phone, web chat and text crisis supporters on hand to make sure no-one has to face their darkest moments alone.
Barbeques Galore CEO, Angus McDonald, said that the partnership encourages Australians to connect side-by-side and ‘Take 10’ and come together.
“Standing around the barbeque can be a safe space to talk, to listen and to understand. It is a place where you can feel safe to let down your guard and connect with those you trust and care about most. While a barbeque’s sizzle sounds in the background, it’s the perfect time to reach out and ask for help, confide or seek support.”
Lifeline operates the 13 11 14 telephone line within 41 centres around the nation. The service expects to respond to over one million requests for support this year, creating an average of 120 safety plans to keep a person experiencing suicidal ideation safe every day.
For more information on Lifeline Australia, go to: https://www.lifeline.org.au/about/
