The number of people in the Lakes district who have taken their own life has more than doubled over the past year.
The annual provisional suicide statistics released today show than in the year to the end of June 2016, 21 people in the Lakes area died by suicide in the year to the end of June 2016.
It is up from 10 in the 2014/2015 year and is the highest number since the 2010/2011 year when 23 people died by suicide.
Chief Coroner Judge Deborah Marshall said nationally 579 people died by suicide in the 2015/16 year.
It is the highest number of suicide deaths since the provisional statistics were first recorded for the 2007/08 year, and follows last year's total of 564, which was then the highest total.
However, that the suicide rate per 100,000 population for this year (12.32) remains just lower than the 2010/11 year (12.65).
Judge Marshall said there needed to be more discussion about suicide prevention and how family, friends and colleagues can identify someone at risk and help them get professional support.
"Everyone should recognise the importance of taking suicidal thoughts seriously and knowing where to get help."
Where to get help
- In an emergency: Call 111.
- Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (available 24/7).
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7).
- Youthline: 0800 376 633, or text 234 (available 24/7) or talk@youthline.co.nz or live chat (between 7pm and 11pm).
- Kidsline: 0800 543 754 (available 24/7).
- Whatsup: 0800 942 8787 (1pm to 11pm).
- Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 (available 24/7).
- Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155 (weekdays 11am to 5pm).
- NetSafe: 0508 NETSAFE (0508 638 723), www.theorb.org.nz