Statistics show sharp rise in number of suicides

NewsHub 24 August 2018
There has been a sharp increase in the number of people committing suicide, new statistics show.

The coroner revealed on Friday 668 people died by suspected suicide from July 2017-June 2018. It’s the fourth year in a row the number has increased, and 10 percent more than the previous year’s figure of 606.

“It’s a tragedy to see the number of self-inflicted deaths increase again,” said chief coroner Judge Deborah Marshall.

“We need to keep talking about how to recognise the signs that someone may want to take their own life. If someone expresses thoughts and feelings about suicide, take them seriously.”

The Mental Health Foundation said in a statement it is “deeply saddened” by the increase. It said Māori continue to be disproportionately represented in the statistics.“Today we will take some time to reflect on the loss of each person who died by suicide this year,” MHF chief executive Shaun Robinson says.

“I know from my own experience that these are deeply personal tragedies and my deepest and most heartfelt condolences go out to all those who have lost someone to suicide.

“If you know someone who is grieving, reach out to them today. Check in and ask how they are and how you can help. News like this can be especially overwhelming if you have recently lost someone to suicide.”
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