Suicide Prevention Month
Suicide Prevention Month
September marks Suicide Prevention Month, a crucial period dedicated to raising awareness and preventing a tragedy that profoundly impacts countless lives. Over 3,000 deaths by suicide occur each year in Australia, emphasizing the urgency of this cause. In 2022 alone, there were 3,249 deaths by suicide – an average of about 9 deaths per day – with a rate of 12.3 per 100,000 population.
Notably, over 7 million Australian adults are close to someone who has died by suicide or attempted suicide, illustrating the widespread impact. Suicide ranks as the 15th leading cause of death overall, with males being around three times more likely to die by suicide than females. Additionally, Indigenous Australians experience a rate twice as high as non-Indigenous Australians, and the LGBTIQ community faces higher rates of mental illness and suicide due to discrimination and stigma.
September isn’t just a month on the calendar; it’s a call to action! Your support, compassion, and understanding can save lives. Join us in spreading hope and building a world where mental health is a priority. Together, we can make a difference—one conversation, one act of kindness at a time. Visit Suicide Prevention Australia’s website to learn more and to see how you can get involved in your local community.
