Spotting the signs of suicide can save a life
In New Zealand more people die from suicide than car crashes, Sylvia Holliday says.
The Pakuranga counsellor says in the eastern suburbs alone three men aged from 20 to 34 have completed suicide over the past month.
Around 500 people every year die nationwide from suicide.
"Asking or talking about suicide can decrease the risk," she says.
In a presentation in Howick's Haseler Hall this month, Mrs Holliday stressed that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.
"Suicide numbers actually increase over pubic holidays as well," she says.
"You often hear about the road toll over these times but what you don't hear is how many people have attempted or completed suicide."
It is very unusual for someone not to give any signs that they are thinking about suicide.
"It's more common for friends and family not to pick up on these signs."
She says 80 percent of all suicide cases have given repeated warnings of their intentions.
Some of the indicators include a history of problems, communication problems, directly or indirectly threatening suicide, violence, dare-devil behaviour and stock-piling items to use to end their life.
"They don't just stop after the first time failed either," Mrs Holliday says.
"Four out of five who attempt suicide will try again.
"Suicide is not a wish to die but a cry for help."
Some of the reasons people take their own life include the death of someone else, rejection at home or work, loneliness, relationship breakup or simply because they can see no other answer.
The most common age for suicides in the Howick, Pakuranga and Highland Park area is men aged from 20 to 34. Men over 60 are also in a high-risk category.
"Retirement can cause a lot of men to complete suicide," she says.
Mrs Holliday says the number of suicides have almost doubled in recent years.
"I believe this is a direct result of all the violence and natural disasters happening around the world."
She says the most important thing anyone can do if they believe someone is suicidal is to get help.
Most cases could be prevented if the signs were recognised.