Responses to some of your inquiries after the Bondi Junction tragedy:

First and foremost, at LIVIN, our hearts go out to all the families, friends, and community members directly and indirectly affected by the tragic events that unfolded at Bondi Junction over the weekend. The following information comes in response to the numerous people who have reached out, somewhat distressed, seeking answers and understanding about mental ill-health and violence, as well as expressing apprehension about going about their daily lives. 

Recognising the deep impact of this tragedy, we are committed to providing clarity and support through this post, which addresses some of (certainly not exhaustive) the key concerns and questions raised by our community in the wake of these events.

What are a couple of things we can do to look after ourselves following a traumatic experience?

Social connection is our greatest strength: In times like these, when many are grappling with high levels of distress, the power of community is more important than ever. It’s crucial for us to come together, to openly share our experiences, and collectively process what has happened. Social connections play a key role in our collective resilience: checking in on each other, organising gatherings, and preventing the isolation that often accompanies grief are vital steps. We acknowledge that experiencing distress in response to trauma is completely normal. However, it’s essential to monitor this distress closely. If intense feelings persist for more than one, two, three weeks and start to impede your day-to-day activities – whether it’s work, relationships, or other responsibilities – it may be time to double down on your social support networks and consider seeking help from a mental health professional.

A friend of mine doesn’t want to go out since hearing about what happened over the weekend. Any suggestions?

The section on ‘Social connection is our greatest strength’ could be quite relevant here, offering some valuable insights. 

It’s also useful to consider how amplified media coverage and misleading perceptions can obscure our understanding of risk and distort how frequently we think such events occur. While rare events can seem prevalent due to their intense representation in media, our perception often stems from the ‘availability heuristic’ – a mental shortcut that leads us to overestimate the likelihood of such incidents because they are readily recalled. Events like those at Bondi Junction naturally prompt reflection on crucial safety issues and societal needs, urging us to exercise caution. Yet, it is essential to maintain a realistic and balanced perspective without minimising the tragedy of the event. 

In the case of the tragic events at Bondi Junction, the extensive media coverage may amplify our sense of frequency and perceived risk. It is crucial to recognise that, although these events deeply affect those involved and can resonate broadly through media amplification, they are, fortunately, rare. Acknowledging this can help us manage our emotional responses and maintain a balanced perspective on the actual risks we face in our daily lives. This awareness is not only vital for our sense of security but also for fostering a supportive community where fears and vulnerabilities can be addressed openly and constructively.

Are people with mental health issues often violent?

One step forward, two steps backward: While we typically refrain from commenting on specific mental health diagnoses without thorough consultation with the individual and their treating team, it has been reported that untreated or improperly treated mental health issues, such as schizophrenia, may have played a role in the tragic events at Bondi Junction. However, it’s critical to approach such interpretations with caution. Associating mental ill-health directly with violence can be misleading and potentially harmful. Such incidents can foster misconceptions, leading people to subconsciously or consciously link mental health issues with violent behavior. This not only perpetuates existing stigmas but also undermines the dedicated efforts of those working tirelessly to combat mental health stigma.

The truth is complex and multifaceted: Individuals with mental health conditions are statistically more likely to be victims rather than perpetrators of violence. Our intention is not to excuse any behavior but to provide accurate and necessary information. It’s important not to point fingers or assign blame prematurely, as we often do not have all the information. Instead, we should strive to understand the nuanced realities while offering our support to those in distress. The effort to destigmatise mental ill-health is ongoing and challenging. Unfortunately, this process can be significantly set back when high-profile incidents, widely broadcasted and discussed, perpetuate a misleading narrative that equates mental ill-health with danger and violence.

We want to reiterate: As we navigate these challenging times, it’s vital to remember the power of our social bonds. Together, we can provide a network of support, understanding, and resilience. If you find that distress from recent events lingers and begins to impact your daily life it’s crucial to lean on and strengthen your connections with others, and not hesitate to seek professional help. By supporting each other, we reinforce our collective ability to heal and grow stronger in the face of adversity.