We all have a role to play in reducing deaths by suicide

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) today released the annual Causes of Death data reporting that in 2019 there were 3,318 deaths by suicide compared with 3,138 in 2018. 
 

We are saddened by the increase in the number of deaths by suicide and acknowledge that every number reflects a life tragically lost and the devastating impact on those left behind. To all those impacted by suicide, our thoughts are with you. Our team care deeply about suicide prevention and it is what drives us to continue our work addressing social connections and early intervention. 

 

The expert knowledge about suicide is that it is a complex behaviour and is rarely preceded by a single event or condition. These figures represent 2019 historical data and it is important that we avoid speculation on the potential impact of recent events on suicide deaths and rates.  

 

We can’t control all of life’s challenges but as individuals we can make a commitment that we will pro-actively connect, and in some cases reconnect, with our friends, family, colleagues and neighbours and be there to support them if they are struggling.   

 

In 2020 we’ve witnessed some inspiring examples of how caring our community can be. Genuine care and concern from loved ones, the supportive shoulder of a friend, or a perceptive colleague can be life-changing for those navigating life’s ups and downs. 

 

A conversation could change a life and you don’t have to be an expert to reach out. If you notice a change, no matter how subtle, in what someone is saying, doing or you know there’s something going on in their life make a plan to genuinely ask them, ‘Are you OK?’ and keep the conversation going by remembering there is more to say after ‘Are you OK?

 

Once you have asked the question, listen with an open mind, explore how you can lend your support and encourage them to take action towards managing the load or accessing professional support. Don’t forget to check in to see how they’re doing to show you genuinely care. 

 

In the words of R U OK? founder Gavin Larkin, “Getting connected and staying connected is the best thing any of us can do both for ourselves and anybody who may be at risk. That said, it’s not just about those at risk, we want everybody in Australia right across the spectrum of society to reach out to the people in their lives that they care about and essentially let them know that they do care by asking R U OK?”  

 

If you or someone you know need immediate support, we urge you to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. 

Read the Suicide Prevention Australia media release at www.suicidepreventionaust.org/civicrm/mailing/url/?u=1147&qid=34978

If you or your loved one are feeling overwhelmed or need immediate support you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the services at www.ruok.org.au/findhelp

Learn when and how to ask R U OK? at www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask