"It's about breaking stereotypes," she said.

"A lot of riders have mental health issues themselves."

Mrs Lasscock is hoping to change those perceptions on Sunday, when more than 120 motorcyclists from the capital take part in this year's Black Dog Ride.

The ride, running from Queanbeyan to Batemans Bay, aims to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention.

It's one of 40 similar rides  taking place around the country this weekend.

Mrs Lasscock is helping to organise the run from Queanbeyan, and said support from the community for the one-day ride had been strong for several years.

"We're taking part to make sure that all of our mates are doing ok," she said.

"People have been more open about their mental health, and people are more inclined to take notice of their friends and family members if they're thinking about mental health."

The ride has a special significance for Mrs Lasscock, whose son Jay committed suicide in 2012, aged 24.

Jay's death was the motivation for  her to become involved in the Black Dog Ride five years ago.

Mrs Lasscock said the ride was a chance for her family to remember and honour Jay.

"After something happens like that, you go into a fog," she said.

"But, it has been fantastic to see people asking what they can do to help someone else."

As well as a barbecue to mark the end of the ride, mental health workers will be on hand to speak to participants.

The Black Dog Ride started in 2009 following a solo ride around Australia by motorcyclist Steve Andrews to raise awareness for suicide prevention following the death of a family member.

While large rides still take place every year, a shorter one-day ride is also held to encourage more people to participate.

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