20/05/2025
Rural Southland is being rocked by more awesome people losing their life to the black dog.
New Zealand still has the highest rates of su***de worldwide, and unfortunately without adequate resources and staffing this won't be able to change. The stigma around mental health, particularly in rural areas makes accessing the supports that are available even harder. To think there are 1,500 staff needed to adequately staff and support mental health throughout New Zealand, highlights the lack of importance mental health is receiving.
Rural areas often experience poorer mental health outcomes than urban areas due to factors like limited access to services, social isolation, and economic challenges. Su***de rates are historically higher in rural communities, and barriers to accessing mental health care can exacerbate these issues.
A lifetime of learnt behaviour encouraging people to 'toughen up', or discriminating against those who do speak up, needs to change. Everyone needs to actively be making decisions to support those who are struggling, rather than diminishing what they are going through. These changes start with us.
"If su***de ever crosses your mind, just know I would rather listen to your story, than attend your funeral"
Support the people you love, don't just tell them you love them, show them.
An email revealed the removal of shortage data was ordered by officials.
