The phone call that saved Ewa-jane Rudolph's life

Ewa-jane Rudolph shares her story in an effort to help others. Photo / Mike Scott

Warning: This article is about suicide and may be distressing for some readers.

We wanted to showcase people who have successfully faced battles with suicide and wider mental health issues to let others know there is hope.

New Zealand has the second worst suicide rate among those aged 25 and under in the developed world. It has the worst suicide rate among those aged 15-19. The number of young people killing themselves has remained largely unchanged for about two decades. The series aims to encourage young people to talk; to know there's hope; to know help is available. And we want to start a national conversation about what New Zealand is doing about the issue - and whether it's enough.

The portraits were taken by Herald visual journalist Mike Scott.

• Some of the stories of hope came from the HopeWalk Suicide Prevention Movement. Find them on Facebook.

Ewa-jane Rudolph shares her story:

"I grew up in what I call the 'hood; straight outta Southside. Rewa!!

"It all started when I was diagnosed with diabetes. At the age of 5 I was dealing with not only an illness, but the sexual abuse from a loved one; a person who I looked up to, a person I thought I could trust.

"I grew up faster than I should have. At 14 I wanted out, so that's exactly what I did. I was in and out of the streets and had a 'mess with me and I'll thump you' attitude.

"At the age of 19, I moved to the countryside trying to start fresh. Turns out it topped my life off. I fell pregnant and lost my son.

"Drugs and abuse was the normal thing. This is when I really fell deep. Drugs were my biggest friend; trying to kill myself became an everyday thing.

"I tried so hard but never got anywhere. My partner at the time had moved away with me to a little township where I thought things were going to change. They did in a way I will never forget. Early one morning I was sexually assaulted. At this point in time I was totally mind f*****, felt alone, had no hope at all.

"I wanted more than anything to just end my life!!! There was a voice in my head telling me to die, that I'm not worth it. I couldn't take anymore. I wanted out!

"Then my phone rang. That one person that can save your life saved mine. He knew when to text, he knew when to call and that is exactly what he did. Not knowing what just happened or what I was planning, he put a smile on my face and made me feel like nothing else mattered.

"He is the reason I held on. He is the reason I am here today. He is why I smile and look forward to days ahead.

"So for everyone going through a tough time, feeling alone, feeling helpless, unloved - you matter! There is always someone listening. never give up and know your self worth."

WHERE TO GET HELP:

If you are worried about your or someone else's mental health, the best place to get help is your GP or local mental health provider. However, if you or someone else is in danger or endangering others, call 111.

If you need to talk to someone, the following free helplines operate 24/7:

DEPRESSION HELPLINE: 0800 111 757
LIFELINE: 0800 543 354
NEED TO TALK? Call or text 1737
SAMARITANS: 0800 726 666
YOUTHLINE: 0800 376 633 or text 234

There are lots of places to get support. For others, click here.