Miyay Birray and headspace Moree to host free barbecue for R U OK? Day 2020

The Moree community will have the opportunity to find out what services are available locally to help continue the conversation after someone admits they're not okay, during a free event at Miyay Birray on Thursday.

This Thursday, September 10 is national R U OK? Day and to keep the conversation on mental health going, Miyay Birray is hosting a free community barbecue in conjunction with headspace, Pius and Just Reinvest.

"The theme for this year is 'There's more to say after R U OK' and so we'll have headspace and Pius there to talk about what comes after people do admit they're not okay," Miyay Birray youth worker Glen Crump said.

"It will also be about making other services aware of who's out there."

This year has been a particularly challenging one for everyone and with increased isolation, unemployment rates, financial issues and a lack of social interaction as a result of COVID-19, mental health issues have been on the rise.

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Headspace Moree's youth care coordinator Oscar Cafarella said he has seen an increase in young people presenting with mental health issues that could be linked with COVID-19 circumstances.

"It can be confusing for young people, not knowing why they're fighting more or feeling down," he said.

It's not only youth who are being impacted by COVID-19, but people right across the community.

"We've had a lot of adults ringing us up asking where to go for help," Mr Crump said.

As a result, it's now even more important for people to stay connected and support those around us.

This R U OK? Day, Australians are being encouraged to keep the conversation going when someone says they're not okay.

Mr Cafarella said knowing what to say can help someone feel supported and access appropriate help long before they're in crisis, which can make a really positive difference.

"A lot of it is intervention, to start the conversation, and the sooner, the better," he said.

"Sometimes it's just that community approach and having people check in that can make all the difference.

"Everyone can play their part to check in on mates and family members."

Miyay Birray invites all members of the community, including other services, to pop in for a barbecue between 3pm and 5pm on Thursday, September 10.

There'll be information on a range of difference services, as well as a boxing demonstration by Moree's professional boxer TC Priestley, from Chalky's Boxing Gym.

"It's not just targeting people who are in need of mental health support," Miyay Birray CEO Darrel Smith said.

"This is about making sure people know there is support in the area for them. There are local services that can help.

"We encourage all service providers and families to pop in."

The PCYC bus will be available to pick people up between 3pm to 5pm if they need a lift. Call Miyay Birray on 6752 6038 to arrange pick-up.

For more information about R U OK? Day, go to www.ruok.org.au

If you or someone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800. If a life is in danger, call triple zero (000) immediately.