Media Statement from Youthline

April 2, 2004

Media Statement from Youthline

Today's release of the latest suicide statistics by SPINZ (Suicide Prevention Information New Zealand) showing a trend of increasing numbers of suicides is a reminder of how important suicide prevention work is according to New Zealand's longest running youth service, Youthline.

Clinical manager for Youthline, Les Simmonds, says that Youthline centres around the country handle 2,000 phone calls a month and the Auckland district alone conducts over 80 weekly face to face counselling sessions.

"Although a range of divergent opinions surround this issue, it is clearly evident from research and experience that individual and family counselling is a powerful agent for change in the treatment of depression in young people," says Mr Simmonds.

Youthline, established 34 years ago, continues to provide vital counselling programmes nationwide. With a seven day a week, 16 hour a day telephone service and a wide range of face to face counselling, Youthline is actively involved in developing, training and research for the best way of dealing with issues such as suicide.

ENDS

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