Geeks

This is deeply personal to me. It breaks my heart that so many people are silently struggling with their mental health.

In Australia, one in nine people die by suicide every day.
Globally, over 720,000 people die by suicide each year.

We need more research into the neuroscience and neurobiology of suicide. But we also need to talk about what can help.

Some known protective factors include:

Social and emotional support
Feeling supported and connected can reduce suicidal thoughts by up to 40 percent.
A sense of meaning
Research by Michael Steger. Shows that having meaning in life, both understanding life, and having a goal to move toward, can reduce hopelessness and help people feel more engaged.
Self-compassion
Dr. Kristin Neff’s work shows that being kind to yourself reduces negative self-talk, emotional distress, and feelings of isolation.
Sleep
Even one extra hour of sleep improves mood, thinking, and impulse control.
Movement
Gentle daily movement, especially walking in nature, helps regulate the nervous system.
Heart-focused breathing
A simple practice: breathe slowly in and out, focusing on your heart. It helps bring your body and mind back into balance.

A personal belief- being connected to something greater than ourselves.

If you’re struggling, you don’t have to do it alone. Please reach out. Support is here.

I’m taking part in Walk for Awareness to raise funds for the Mental Awareness Foundation, which supports life-saving counselling for those in need.

Every donation over $2 is tax-deductible and directly helps someone get support they may not otherwise afford.

If you’re in another state or country, you can still contribute to the cause. Every step matters.

For those who have lost someone, we walk to honour and celebrate their life. For those who are still here and struggling we walk to celebrate you, stand with you and remind you- You are not alone.