Lifeline: Suicide affects everyone

The provisional suicide figures for the 2017-2018 period released earlier today show that 668 New Zealanders have lost their lives to suicide.

Lifeline Executive Director, Glenda Schnell, is very concerned about this rise as it indicates that there are far too many New Zealanders who are getting to a place where they are feeling desperate, alone and hopeless.

“Sadly, we have seen the suicide numbers increase yet again. The loss of a loved one to suicide is one of the most painful and distressing things to face and it is heart breaking to hear that more people are having to go through this,” says Schnell. “In fact, research tells us that suicide affects over 50% of New Zealanders, either directly or indirectly through loved ones, friends or social connections”.

Glenda is heartened by the government’s show of commitment through the mental health inquiry and stresses that “suicide and suicidal thinking does not only affect people who are struggling with mental health issues. It can affect anyone.”

“One in five people battle with suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives. Life can deal some harsh blows and it is normal to think that it would be easier for others if you disappeared. But this could not be further from the truth”. Lifeline receives many calls from people who are contemplating suicide, and most of them are not connected with mental health services.

“Upgrading the mental health system will not solve this problem on its own. Suicide affects us all. Yes, having well-resourced mental health services is part of the solution, but a comprehensive solution needs to go much deeper than that. I think back to when AIDS was on the rise and we thought that was unsolvable in this country. Resources were poured into research and prevention – this is what is needed now for suicide.”

Part of the solution is about providing people with support and a sense of hope that comes through connection and empowerment. Our counsellors walk alongside callers until they feel empowered to make choices, which may include the choice to live the life they really want.

Lifeline has hope for a future where no person in New Zealand is left alone when they are in distress. This will take commitment from everyone in the community and investment by Government. Schnell says that to decrease barriers to people asking for help, the stigma of suicide and suicidal thinking must be removed.

The Coroner’s figures released today are a call to action. After the loss of much-loved television presenter, Greg Boyed, announced on Wednesday, Lifeline saw a spike in calls. Yet this is an opportunity. More people are reaching out while they are hurting, which means more people have the chance to find the support they need.

“We want people of Aotearoa to know that those who call Lifeline can trust that their concerns, heartache or troubles will not be judged, that they will be heard and can find hope,” says Schnell. Anyone who thinks they, or someone they know may be thinking about suicide or anyone struggling to deal with the loss of a loved one through suicide can call 0800 LIFELINE (543 354), or text HELP (4357).

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