I Know Scott | Signal For Help

Reaching out to your friend/colleague isn’t always easy but may go a long way to help them. Here are a few tips on starting a conversation with Scott:

Find a good time and place. Not in the drivers room when people are coming and going. Also, not when Scott is time poor. Suggest going for a coffee/drink after work or finding a spot that is free from distractions. Focus on what you have noticed and try to add something positive. “Scott, I’ve noticed that you have stopped wearing your footy guernsey and joining in the footy banter. We really miss you standing up for the Tigers.” “Scott, marriage break downs are tough, restarting your life is tough. Are you ok? Would you like to talk about it? “

Encourage and support Scott to talk: Don’t use criticism or guilt to get them to tell you.

“Scott, are you ok, mate? I mean really OK? You are going through a pretty tough time. Do you want to talk about it?”
“Have you spoken to your GP about how tough it has been for you?“
“Hey Scott, I was wondering if you have spoken to ( male drivers name ) who went through a tough divorce last year? It might be good to compare stories and find out how he managed and if he has any tips”
“Scott, have you seen the Signal for help website. I had a look yesterday and it was great. Those stories could be any of us, and I want you to know I am here if you want to talk about it.”

If Scott doesn’t want to talk, invite him to talk to you when he is ready. It is not your role to be a health professional, but you could play a role to help Scott to attend his doctor to gain the right treatment. The best support might be making an appointment for him and offering to drive and wait for him. You can also support him to speak with his supervisor, review this website or talk when he is ready.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Depression can be successfully treated. By understanding what treatment options there are, you can provide the necessary support and direction to your friend/family/colleague to access a treatment that supports them.

To learn more about depression and how it can be managed, please click here.

WHO CAN I TALK TO? WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE?

Your local GP or mental health practitioner can help you understand mental health and provide advice. Other good links for you to review or people to talk to include:

Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/mental-health/depression

Black Dog Institute https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, visit https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/emergency-help/

Lifeline https://www.lifeline.org.au/get-help/information-and-support/depression/

If you want to talk to someone for free you can