As R U OK Day encourages people to engage in meaningful conversations and support those around them, Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) is taking a significant step to address mental health within its community. Recognizing the vital need to understand and improve the mental well-being of its members, SLSA has initiated the SLSA Mental Health Project in collaboration with leading universities. This groundbreaking effort aims to tackle the mental health challenges faced by Australian surf lifesavers and lifeguards.
Until recently, there had been limited research into the mental health of emergency service personnel, including those within surf lifesaving organizations. The theme for this year’s R U OK Day, “I’m here to hear,” underscores the idea that anyone can engage in conversations about mental health, emphasizing the potential life-changing impact of such discussions.
The first mental health survey conducted in 2021 produced eye-opening results. It revealed that one in three adolescent members (aged 13-17) faced a risk of developing post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), which could potentially lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The research also indicated that those with more years of patrol experience were at a greater risk of exposure to potentially traumatic events (PTEs) and were more likely to have experienced higher levels of direct trauma. However, it was noted that the social networks developed within the SLSA community were expected to act as a protective factor against the impacts of exposure to traumatic events.
SLSA is now calling upon all Australian surf lifesavers and lifeguards over the age of 13 to actively participate in the current survey, which is currently live. This initiative represents a significant stride toward safeguarding those who dedicate their lives to safeguarding the community.
In the spirit of R U OK Day, SLSA’s Mental Health Project serves as a reminder that it’s okay not to be okay, and that extending a hand and lending an ear can make a world of difference.
