Suicide Intervention with Peter Thorburn

Trigger Warning: Suicide & Self-harm.

According to the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand, in 2019 New Zealand had the highest youth suicide rate in the OECD. Unfortunately, the Māori rate is higher than that for non-Māori, and that the male suicide rate is higher than the female rate.

Suicide is often seen as a permanent solution to a temporary problem. It’s an act that leaves the loved ones of those whom have completed forever searching for answers and asking what more could they have done to prevent it. It can be due to mental health conditions, relationship problems, financial strain, proper access to support, and a myriad of other reasons.

On Wednesday the 1st of June we had Peter Thorburn navigate 18 of our Tāmaki (and wider-Auckland) whānau through suicide intervention. He took us through the various causes, as well as what can be some tell-tale signs of someone with suicidal thoughts. What we can do to prevent suicide, but also how to deal with whānau of those who have unfortunately completed.

Unfortunately, suicide prevention is not an exact science, as the signs differ from person-to-person. However, better understanding the causes can help us better identify those that need support most so we can prevent the loss of life. Healthy relationships means having courageous conversations, because what you bring to light and share, would be what inspires someone struggling with something similar to speak up and ask for help before it’s too late.

Click here if you need some help with your own/a loved ones suicidal thoughts.