World Suicide Prevention Day: 10 September 2009

9 September 2009

World Suicide Prevention Day: 10 September 2009

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists recognises World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September, an initiative of the International Association for Suicide Prevention and the World Health Organization.

World Suicide Prevention Day aims to improve education about suicide, disseminate information, decrease stigmatization and raise awareness that suicide is preventable.

“Suicide is a leading cause of death for people around the world. Approximately 1 million people die by suicide each year worldwide and suicide takes the lives of more than two thousand Australians every year, greatly impacting families, friends, workplaces and communities. In New Zealand approximately 15% of the population have reported having thought seriously about suicide,” said Professor Louise Newman, President Elect of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists.

“Suicide has biological, cultural, social and psychological risk factors. People from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds are at increased risk of suicidal behaviour. Childhood adversity and trauma, and various life stresses as an adult influence risks of suicidal behaviour. Serious mental illness such as depression, substance abuse, anxiety disorders and schizophrenia are associated with increased risk of suicide,” said Professor Newman.

“Anyone with suicidal thoughts is encouraged to talk to someone about their thoughts and seek appropriate professional help. If you notice someone you know acting out of character or displaying suicide warning signs such as talking about killing themselves, expressing feelings of hopelessness or rage and engaging in risky behaviour, talk to them about it and seek help from health professionals or a telephone counselling service,” said Professor Newman.

Psychiatrists are available to provide expert comment to the media about suicide, its causes, warning signs and prevention.

About The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) is the principal organisation representing the medical specialty of psychiatry in Australia and New Zealand and has responsibility for training, examining and awarding the qualification of Fellowship of the College to medical practitioners.

There are currently more than 3000 Fellows of the College who account for approximately 85 per cent of all practising psychiatrists in Australia and over 50 per cent of psychiatrists in New Zealand. Close to 1000 trainees are undertaking basic and advanced training to become psychiatrists in both countries. Further information can be found at the College’s website: www.ranzcp.org.

ENDS