World Suicide Prevention Day
Every year on 10 September, communities, organisations and governments across Australia and around the globe come together on World Suicide Prevention Day to reflect, connect, and recommit to our shared goal of preventing suicide and spreading hope.
Suicide is the leading cause of death among young Australians. It is the reason Live4Life exists. To equip young people and adults with the skills and knowledge to support themselves and one another. To empower entire communities to understand the first signs of mental ill-health.
Protecting young lives starts with conversations about mental health. Educating young people and adults in the community gives everyone the tools and opportunity to know what to do, how to help, who to go to.
To mark World Suicide Prevention Day, Live4Life is releasing an interview we filmed in the central Victorian community of Hepburn. Bridget Franc is Coordinator of Live4Life Hepburn and Head of Wellbeing at Daylesford College. In the interview, she speaks about the direct, meaningful impact just talking about mental health and suicide had on the life of one young person. With the suicide rate in regional areas now 50% higher than in major cities, it is important to recognise that we do have the means and the evidence to change the narrative — not just for one young person but for whole generations. Bridget's story is a powerful example of how that happens. Watch Bridget's story below.
Led by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organization, this year’s theme, ‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide’, challenges us to transform how we think and talk about suicide.
Bridget's story shows that, together, we can shift from silence and stigma to openness, empathy and action — and ensure those who are struggling feel heard, supported, and connected.
If you need help, support is available:
Lifeline Australia 13 11 14
Kids Help Line 1800 55 1800
Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
headspace 1800 65 0890
Yarn Safe 13 92 76
Qlife 1800 184 527
Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
For a list of further resources please visit live4life.org.au/get-support