Spark Social

R U OK?—A Simple Question, A Powerful Impact @ruokanyday is an Australian suicide prevention charity that aims to inspire and empower people to ask a simple but important question: "Are you okay?" Through its extensive resources, R U OK? equips workplaces, schools, and communities to have meaningful conversations and support mental well-being. The charity offers tailored resources for every situation—whether it's guiding educators on how to foster student well-being, supporting LGBTIQ+ communities, or providing specific tools for rural and remote areas. They also offer practical advice for those navigating life's challenges, such as dealing with natural disasters, supporting neurodivergent friends, or offering assistance to tradies and apprentices. With support hubs like R U OK? at Work or R U OK? in Your Community, they encourage us to stay connected, support one another, and create a culture where mental health conversations happen every day. Together, we can champion the message and build stronger, more compassionate communities. #SparkSocial #RUOK #AreYouOkay #MentalHealthMatters #SupportEachOther #CommunityWellbeing #EmpowerConversations #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthSupport #CompassionateCommunities #ResilienceBuilding #MentalWellbeing #RuralMentalHealth #EverydayConversations #TogetherForMentalHealth

PTSD: Understanding Symptoms and Global Significance   PTSD affects individuals from all walks of life, including prominent figures like Lady Gaga. She has courageously shared her experience of developing PTSD after surviving repeated sexual assaults as a teenager. Gaga's story highlights the profound impact of trauma and the importance of addressing mental health.   Common symptoms of PTSD can include intrusive thoughts, such as recurrent memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event. Many individuals find themselves avoiding reminders of their trauma—steering clear of places, people, or conversations that bring back painful memories. This often goes hand in hand with negative mood changes, including persistent negative thoughts, feelings of hopelessness, and difficulty experiencing joy. Hyperarousal is another common symptom, manifesting as increased irritability, trouble sleeping, and a heightened startle response. Some individuals may also experience dissociation, feeling detached from themselves or their reality.   Statistics underscore the significance of addressing PTSD on a global scale. Approximately 7-8% of the global population will experience PTSD in their lifetime, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Around 70% of adults report experiencing a traumatic event, with a significant number developing PTSD as a result. Alarmingly, many individuals with PTSD do not seek treatment, leading to underreporting and a lack of necessary support.   In her interviews and recent appearance in the mental health docuseries **The Me You Can’t See**, Gaga has ignited vital conversations about trauma, healing, and the long-lasting effects of untreated mental health conditions. Her openness illuminates the deep connection between trauma and mental health, while also providing hope to those struggling. By breaking the silence surrounding PTSD, Gaga is reducing stigma and encouraging others to seek support. Her message is clear: healing is attainable when we confront our pain and reach out for help.   Through her music and advocacy, she inspires millions, demonstrating that true strength lies in vulnerability. Lady Gaga reminds us that we are not defined by our trauma but by our resilience. Her story encourages others to embrace their journeys, seek healing, and foster a supportive community that prioritizes mental well-being. Together, we can cultivate understanding and compassion for those grappling with PTSD. #PTSDAwareness #HealingIsPossible #BreakTheSilence #StrengthInVulnerability #ResilienceNotDefinedByTrauma #MentalHealthMatters #SupportEachOther #LadyGagaAdvocacy #EmbraceYourJourney #TogetherForMentalHealth

Australians for Mental Health is leading the charge to address the nation’s mental health crisis, where 1 in 5 Australians will experience a mental health condition each year, and 65% of these individuals won’t receive adequate care. Despite $10.6 billion in annual mental health funding, for almost 1 in 3 people aged suicide remains the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15-44. Their mission is clear: to disrupt the status quo through a national alliance of businesses, faith groups, and communities, pushing for cultural change and making mental health an urgent national priority. By organizing grassroots networks, they aim to create a groundswell of public support that can’t be ignored by policymakers. Australians for Mental Health believes that real change comes from collective action, and that every community has the power to drive this transformation. It’s time to unite, speak up, and advocate for the mental well-being of all. #AustraliansForMentalHealth #MentalHealthMatters #ActForMentalHealth #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthReform #EndTheCrisis #SupportMentalWellBeing #SpeakUpForChange

This October, in recognition of Mental Health Month, Selena Gomez’s story continues to inspire people worldwide. In her documentary Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me, she opens up about her struggles with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. After being diagnosed with lupus in 2015, Selena faced not only physical health challenges but also the emotional toll of her illness, leading her to seek treatment and take a much-needed break from her career. The documentary offers a raw and honest portrayal of her journey toward healing, therapy, and the importance of prioritising mental health, reminding viewers that mental well-being is just as crucial as physical health. By speaking out, Selena has helped to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues and has encouraged millions to seek help. Her openness has fostered vital conversations around mental well-being and self-care. As we observe Mental Health Month, let Selena’s courage remind us that mental health matters—and that healing is possible for everyone, no matter the challenge. #SparkSocial #MentalHealthMonth #MentalWellbeing #MentalHealthAwareness #SelfCareMatters #HealingJourney #SelenaGomez #MyMindandMe

🌿✨ This October, we continue to shine a light on Mental Health Month at Spark Social. Mental well-being isn’t just a conversation—it’s at the core of our commitment to creating positive social value across Australia. At Spark Social, we believe social good and wealth growth are intertwined. Through our innovative Social Value Investing platform, we empower individuals and organisations to deliver measurable social impact. Mental health isn’t an afterthought—it’s essential. Let’s break the stigma, foster healing, and drive lasting change. Together, we can grow both wealth and well-being. 💙 🧡 🌱 #SparkSocial #MentalHealthMatters #SocialImpact #MentalHealthMonth #SocialValueInvesting #BreakTheStigma #HealingTogether

We are excited to share our founder Luke Cheng's insightful article, “Moving Beyond ESG: Embracing Social Value as the Future of Business.” In this article, Luke discusses the limitations of the traditional ESG framework and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing social value in today’s business landscape. As companies face increasing societal expectations, moving beyond mere compliance to create social impact truly is crucial. At Spark Social, we actively advocate for and promote this concept., integrating social value into our core strategies. By fostering community engagement, enhancing employee well-being, and adopting sustainable practices, we aim to contribute positively to society while achieving our business objectives. Join us in embracing this essential shift towards a more responsible and impactful business model. #SocialValue #ESG #Sustainability #BusinessGrowth #CorporateResponsibility

Did you know that millions of animals, including rabbits, mice, and monkeys, are subjected to painful testing procedures for cosmetics and household products? Despite advancements in cruelty-free alternatives, many global brands still rely on outdated, inhumane practices. Animals Australia, representing over 2 million members, is at the forefront of fighting animal cruelty. With a proven track record, they have conducted groundbreaking investigations and strategic public awareness campaigns that have led to significant reforms. In 2024, they achieved a landmark vote in the Federal Parliament to ban live sheep exports, marking a major victory for animal welfare. In addition, their legal efforts include a world-first case challenging the legality of carbon dioxide gassing for pigs in Australian slaughterhouses. By choosing cruelty-free products, you can support Animals Australia's mission to end animal testing and promote kindness towards all living beings. Together, let’s create a future free from animal suffering. #SparkSocial #AnimalsAustralia #AnimalRights #EndAnimalTesting #CrueltyFree #AnimalWelfare #StopAnimalCruelty #CompassionateLiving #EthicalProducts

Animal testing is a controversial issue in Australia, used in industries like cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medical research. Although a 2020 ban stopped cosmetic animal testing, testing for medical purposes continues under strict regulations, raising concerns about enforcement and transparency. Over 3 million animals were used for scientific purposes in 2022, sparking ethical debates about the suffering animals endure. However, humane alternatives like in vitro testing and computer models are emerging as effective solutions. Australians can help end unnecessary animal testing by supporting cruelty-free brands, advocating for stronger legislation, and backing research that embraces alternatives. While some progress has been made, more effort is needed to move toward a future without animal testing. Spark Social is deeply committed to this cause and will continue to stay informed and engaged with developments in animal testing regulations, alternatives, and advocacy efforts. Our organisation believes in creating a positive social impact, and the fight against unnecessary animal testing is a vital part of our mission. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s post, where we will spotlight a remarkable animal rights organisation working tirelessly to end animal testing. We will share how they’re making a real impact in the fight for animal welfare and how you can get involved. #SparkSocial #AnimalTesting #CrueltyFree #AnimalRights #EndAnimalTesting #HumaneAlternatives #EthicalResearch #SupportAnimalWelfare #NoAnimalTesting #AnimalAdvocacy #AnimalProtection

RSPCA Victoria is a leading animal welfare charity dedicated to preventing cruelty and improving the lives of animals across the country. With a mission to actively promote the care, protection, and humane treatment of animals, their vision is a future where all animals live free from suffering. Through their network of state-based services, RSPCA Australia provides vital care for rescued, abandoned, and mistreated animals, while working tirelessly to influence animal welfare policy and legislation. Their role spans many areas, including advancing animal welfare science, advocating for farm animal welfare, and ensuring humane treatment for animals in entertainment and sports industries. Public education is at the heart of their mission, raising awareness about responsible pet ownership and fostering a compassionate society. RSPCA inspectors also enforce laws to protect animals from cruelty and neglect, ensuring accountability and justice. From shelters to advocacy, RSPCA Australia is making a tangible difference. Learn how you can help at www.rspca.org.au. #SparkSocial #RSPCAAustralia #AnimalWelfare #ProtectAnimals #EndAnimalCruelty #HumaneTreatment #RescueAndCare #AdvocateForAnimals #FarmAnimalWelfare #ResponsiblePetOwnership #SupportRSPCA #AnimalRights

Adam Britton, once a respected zoologist, shocked the world when he was revealed to be a sadistic abuser of animals. Pleading guilty to 60 charges, including bestiality and aggravated animal cruelty, Britton’s crimes involved torturing and murdering dozens of dogs. His actions, hidden behind his professional image, were so heinous that even court officers had to leave during the reading of the case. Sadly, Britton's case is not an isolated incident. Animal cruelty is on the rise globally, with cases increasing each year. According to the RSPCA, over 90,000 cases of animal cruelty are reported annually in the UK alone, and similar trends are seen worldwide. This highlights the urgent need for legal reforms and stronger animal protection laws. Despite recent improvements, existing laws often fall short of providing sufficient penalties for offenders. Harsher punishments and better protection frameworks are crucial to prevent future abuses. As a community, we can make a difference. Be vigilant in reporting abuse, support animal rights organizations, and advocate for stronger legal protections. Together, we can work towards ensuring cases like Britton's never happen again. #SparkSocial #AnimalCruelty #JusticeForAnimals #ProtectOurPets #EndAnimalAbuse #AnimalRights #StrongerLawsForAnimals #AdvocateForAnimals #NoToAnimalCruelty #SupportAnimalWelfare #HarsherPunishments