World Suicide Prevention Day – September 10 2020

The impacts of suicide are immediate, far-reaching and long-lasting. More than 3000 Australians will end their lives each year, which is about eight people every single day, affecting families, friends, work colleagues and communities across Australia. 

Suicide is a complex issue and to reduce suicide rates in our community there is a need for a holistic approach from all stakeholders involved, including the community. Over the past year a multi-sectoral Suicide Prevention Leadership Group (SPLG) commenced development of a Gold Coast Suicide Prevention Community Action Plan (CAP). This work has been undertaken as part of the joint initiative being led by Gold Coast Primary Health Network and Gold Coast Health to develop a Joint Regional Plan for Mental Health, Suicide Prevention, Alcohol and Other Drugs. 

World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10 and is an opportunity to affirm the region’s commitment to prevent suicide, especially in light of the ongoing impacts of COVID-19. The regional focus on collaborative suicide prevention over the past year has resulted in the Gold Coast being well placed to respond to any increased levels of distress in the community. 

A range of suicide prevention activities are well underway, including existing  suicide prevention services, funded by Gold Coast Primary Health Care Network (GCPHN). Additionally, GCPHN is currently negotiating the purchasing of online Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) training so that people in the community have the confidence and skills to support people in suicidal crisis. 

If you or anyone you know needs help, especially during these difficult times, help is available: 

• In an emergency with immediate risk of harm to you or others, call Triple Zero (000) 
• Lifeline Australia (13 11 14) is a free, confidential and anonymous phone counselling service for adults experiencing a personal crisis or thinking about suicide.
• Suicide Call Back Service (1300 659 467) is a free phone and online web chat service for people feeling suicidal or caring for someone who is suicidal.

• Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) is a free and immediate support, available over the phone and online

Local services are also available to support people who are not at immediate risk: 

• The Wesley Mission Queensland COVID-19 Recovery Service has been established, with funding from Queensland Health, to provide responsive wellbeing support for people aged 16 years and over living in the Gold Coast region whose wellbeing has been impacted by the ongoing effects of COVID-19. To access the service people can self-refer via the enquiry form on the website or by calling 07 5625 1949 or emailing covidrecovery@wmq.org.au  
• 1300 MH CALL (1300 64 2255) can support access to public mental health services  
• GCPHN funded services 

For more information on COVID-19 and your nearest testing clinics, click here.