R U OK? A message promoting mental health awareness has appeared under Fort Scratchley

A poignant message promoting mental health awareness has appeared on a wall near Nobbys Beach in Newcastle. Painted on a cliffside, the graffiti reads, “Your life matters” alongside a red heart, urging anyone struggling with mental health to reach out for support. The message, located along a popular pathway, is clearly visible to passersby, serving as a reminder to the community that help is available, and that even during tough times, life is worth living.

The simple yet powerful words have sparked a conversation online, particularly on Reddit, where user cutecats352 shared the image. While many applauded the sentiment, the post drew a range of responses. One commenter, expressed love for whoever wrote the message, while another shared that seeing it had brought them hope during a difficult time. And another user expressed pride in their hometown, saying, “Love my Newcastle.”

However, not everyone was on board with the public display. One user condemned the graffiti as vandalism, stating that defacing public spaces is unacceptable regardless of the message. This led to a back-and-forth with OP, cutecats352, who highlighted the importance of raising awareness around mental health and shared that they had been dealing with depression for years. The OP also shared links to mental health resources such as Lifeline and RUOK, encouraging others to seek help if needed.

Other users weighed in, supporting the graffiti’s intent, stating that such messages are vital in raising awareness and offering comfort to those in dark times. They pointed out that mental health struggles are common, and it’s essential to have open conversations about them, both online and in public spaces like Nobbys.

Despite differing opinions, the message has clearly resonated with many, sparking important conversations about mental health in Newcastle. The graffiti, though controversial to some, carries a meaningful message that many feel is crucial in today’s society, particularly in a location that sees a significant amount of foot traffic.

The graffiti near Nobbys Beach encourages those struggling with mental health to reach out, Mental health and suicide prevention are significant challenges in Australia. On average, 8.6 Australians die by suicide every day, with males being three times more likely to take their own lives than females. Approximately 65,000 Australians attempt suicide annually​.

These numbers highlight the importance of having open discussions about mental health, which is exactly what campaigns like R U OK? Day aim to encourage.

R U OK? Day, held annually in September, promotes conversations that can help prevent suicide by encouraging people to check in on friends, family, and colleagues. Research shows that those exposed to the R U OK? campaign are up to six times more likely to reach out to someone in need​.

If you or someone you know is struggling, there are many resources available:

• Lifeline Australia (13 11 14) provides 24/7 crisis support.
• Beyond Blue (1300 224 636) offers mental health support.
• Mental Health Line NSW (1800 011 511) can connect you to a team of professionals.

Campaigns like R U OK? Day remind us that simply asking someone if they’re okay can make a difference. By fostering social connection and encouraging open dialogue, these initiatives help break down the stigma surrounding mental health and can ultimately save lives​.

The “wall” in the image appears to be part of an old lookout or bunker structure, from the World War II era. Newcastle has a number of coastal fortifications, which was used to defend the city during wartime. These types of bunkers were typically built into cliffs or other elevated positions to provide strategic views over the ocean and surrounding areas.