News

EVERY few hours a life in Australia is lost to suicide – yet it is one of the least discussed topics on our social agenda.
 
Tomorrow [Wednesday, 10 September] is World Suicide Prevention Day, and Wesley Mission, through Lifeline Sydney and Lifeline Sutherland, is using the opportunity to highlight the need for people to connect with each other and talk about suicide; both people at risk and those around them.
 
“We have found that the number one concern for our callers is loneliness and isolation,” Wesley Mission Superintendent/ CEO Rev Keith Garner said.
 
“An Australian Bureau of Statistics study shows that every five hours someone takes his or her own life in Australia and this doesn’t take into account the people who attempt or consider suicide.
 
“It’s time for people to break the taboo of silence about suicide.
 
“Our counsellors at Lifeline Sydney, who are specially trained in suicide prevention, understand and can help when anyone calls about suicide.
 
“Wesley LifeForce conducts suicide prevention workshops and seminars throughout NSW.
 
“On Wednesday, 1 October at 12 noon Wesley LifeForce is holding our annual Memorial Service for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. We hold this service each year at the Sydney Opera House to provide an opportunity for people to grieve and to remember the person they have lost.
 
“No-one needs to feel alone. We all have a role to play in suicide prevention and the onus is on everyone to get involved.
 
“If we can open the dialogue about suicide globally, nationally and locally, then people may begin to realise that they are not alone in their thoughts and feelings.  Connect with your friends and family; we all have the power to make a difference.”
 
If you are thinking about suicide, or are concerned about someone else’s safety, contact Lifeline 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 13 11 14 or visit the website for information and resources, including a tool kit for helping someone at risk of suicide - www.lifeline.org.au.
 
Lifeline was started in 1963 by Rev Sir Alan Walker, a former Superintendent of Wesley Mission. It now operates in more than 14 countries.