The Department of Health marked World Suicide Prevention Day and RUOK? Day yesterday with a message from National Suicide Prevention Adviser, Christine Morgan.
Ms Morgan, who is also Chief Executive of the National Mental Health Commission, said that now more than ever it was important to continue to work together to ensure a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention and empower people to reach out and support each other through tough times.
“We often cite the number of people who die by or attempt suicide each year to highlight the scale and impact of the issue, but this is only part of the overall picture,” Ms Morgan said.
“There are many more people who live with suicidal ideation and who experience suicidal distress. The factors surrounding suicide are stories of struggle and pain.”
She said access to affordable and effective mental health services was critical for suicide prevention.
“However, it is not sufficient in and of itself,” she said.
“Attention must also be given to other factors that contribute to suicidal behaviour — financial distress, relationship breakdown, housing insecurity, childhood adversity, discrimination, and over use of alcohol and other drugs.”
Ms Morgan said significant life stressors and key points of disconnection and transitions required all available Government and community touchpoints for a comprehensive early response.
“The critical factor is to link people to support rather than waiting for them to seek help.”
She said suicide prevention had traditionally been the responsibility of Australian Health Ministers, with significant activity and investment across jurisdictions, however, suicide was a multi-factor behaviour which meant no single Government or organisation could reduce suicide attempts and suicide deaths alone.
“Collectively, however, they can make a big difference,” she said.
“The COVID-19 response has shown what is possible when the health and wellbeing of a nation is everyone’s priority,” Ms Morgan said.
“As a nation, we have been reminded of the powerful role social connection plays as a protective factor and the importance of both offering support and receiving support from others.”
She said that having people sit beside us when times were good and when times were bad made all the difference.
“You can be that support for the people you know and love. Reach out,” she said.
If this story raises concern for you, help and counselling is available from Lifeline Australia 13 11 14, and other services.
