A mihimihi whakamomori
Acknowledging those we have lost to suicide and recognising the impact on whānau, families, and communities. We also honour those with lived and living experiences of suicidal distress, as well as those who care for and support them.
World Suicide Prevention Day
World Suicide Prevention Day is observed annually on the 10th of September, highlighting the global importance of suicide prevention and reinforcing the message that suicides are preventable. Since its establishment in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), the day has sought to reduce stigma, raise awareness, and bring attention to suicide as a pressing public health issue.
The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day from 2024 to 2026 is "Changing the Narrative on Suicide" with the call to action "Start the Conversation." This theme emphasises the need to break the silence surrounding suicide, reduce stigma, and encourage open and honest conversations. Changing the narrative aims to foster a culture of understanding, support, and openness around this complex issue.
Today, we encourage you to take a moment to reach out to someone in your hāpori, whether it’s a whānau member, friend, colleague, or even a stranger, who may benefit from connection and support.
Never underestimate the power of a single positive interaction—it may, in itself, be an intervention that prevents suicide.
World Suicide Prevention Day: Changing the Narrative Webinar
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.
Speaker Bio
Mark Wilson, Senior Media Advisor, Mental Health Foundation
Mark leads the Suicide Media Response Service at the Mental Health Foundation (MHF), where he supports media professionals in responsibly reporting on suicide. He regularly speaks to media outlets and journalism students about the guidelines and restrictions surrounding suicide reporting. Before joining MHF, Mark worked for over a decade as a news and current affairs radio producer. His lived experience with suicide has led him to facilitate a bereavement support group in Auckland. Mark also serves on the MHF Suicide Bereavement Advisory Group and is passionate about educating others on the complexities of suicide loss.
Master of Ceremonies
Jordyn Elyse, Suicide Prevention Coordinator, Mental Health and Addiction Services, Te Whatu Ora – Counties Manukau
Resources
Where to get help
Help for parents, family and friends.
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
Hosted by Asian Family Services
The Flourishing Asian Communities Programme is Funded by Hauora Māori Services Directorate – Te Whatu Ora, Health New Zealand
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