With World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10th) and RUOK DAY (13th) on the horizon Cowra Loss and Suicide Awareness Group (CLASA) is hosting a one hour Black Dog Institute seminar to highlight adolescent depression and provide parents, teachers and other adults working with adolescents the tools for recognising symptoms and seeking help.
The free community seminar will be held on Wednesday 5th September at 6.30pm at the Multipurpose Room, Cowra Library.
Presenter Cheryl O'Grady is a volunteer community educator with the Black Dog Institute.
"It's a confronting statistic that no less than six people suicide every day in our country (not to mention around 30 attempts)" Ms O'Grady said.
"In fact it's the most common cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 44 and yet we know comparatively little about how to intervene."
This community presentation helps identify the warning signs of depression which typically occur in mid-to-late adolescence.
"Thoughts of death are a symptom of serious depression and one in five of us is affected by depression," Ms O'Grady said.
"It's essential we break the silence and get serious about reducing stigma, getting people talking and more positive about their lives."
It focuses on the importance of early intervention, offers practical strategies for communicating with someone who you are concerned about, when and where to go for help, and strategies for building resilience.
Places are limited so bookings are essential, through the Cowra Neighbourhood Centre by phoning 6342 4900.