The webinar, held in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, focuses on the theme "Changing the Narrative on Suicide" with the call to action "Start the Conversation". It aims to reduce stigma around suicide, raise awareness, and promote open, supportive discussions. The event honours those affected by suicide, including individuals with lived experiences and their supporters. By encouraging positive and meaningful interactions, the webinar highlights how simple connections can play a crucial role in suicide prevention. Hosted by Asian Family Services, the session features expert speakers and resources to guide safe and effective conversations about suicide.
The resource addresses a critical need highlighted by the 2021 New Zealand Asian Wellbeing & Mental Health Report, which found that 44.4% of Asians exhibited symptoms of depression, with an alarming rate of 61.3% among younger Asians. Recognizing these challenges, AFS has created a multifaceted approach to mental health support that is both culturally appropriate and accessible.
This document provides a detailed compilation of suicide prevention and mental well-being resources developed by Asian Family Services (AFS) specifically for Asian communities in New Zealand.
This document serves as a comprehensive catalogue of available workshops and training programmes across New Zealand focused on mental health, addiction, well-being, and suicide prevention.
In 2019, Asian Family Services worked with the Suicide Mortality Review Committee from Health Quality and Safety Commission New Zealand to look into suicide among the Asian community in New Zealand.
People who feel suicidal often feel they are alone and their family, whānau and friends would be better off without them. Support from people who care about them, and connection with their own sense of culture, identity and purpose, can help them to find a way through.
In 2018, AFS launched a suicide prevention resource for Chinese People. There are 2 videos, one is in Mandarin and the other is in Cantonese.