In the wake of the tragic events in Sydney’s Martin Place, there has been much reflection on and analysis of the siege, as Australia grapples to come to terms with what has happened.

Our deepest sympathy goes out to the families and friends of those who lost their lives and the others in the café caught up in this terrible event.

This is a challenging time for us all as we search for answers.

In our endeavour to makes sense of this tragedy, we need to take care that we don’t leap from a single, tragic incident to broad generalisations that can be very unhelpful about groups in our community.

SANE Australia has been contacted by people concerned that some public comments made may unintentionally increase stigma towards people affected by mental illness and that, as a result, people who need help might be deterred from seeking it.

The violent acts of one person do not change the fact that mental illness has an impact on a large proportion of Australians, who live positive and productive lives that are enhancing our community.

After all, one in five of us is affected every year.

Generalisation about any group in our society is never helpful and often harmful.

This is true of attitudes towards the Australian Islamic community, and it is heartening to see a swell of online support for them through the hashtag #illridewithyou.

This has gone some way to reducing the stigma that could ripple out in the days, weeks and months to come towards our Islamic fellow-Australians.

A similar approach is also needed to those among us who are living with a mental illness.

We warmly welcome the leadership and words of NSW Premier Mike Baird on the need for us all to work together to get through these difficult times.

SANE Australia CEO Jack Heath