Education about suicide prevention is one vital way of tackling the issue in Central Otago, those organising a further meeting on the topic next week say.
A broad cross-section of speakers, an informal question and answer session and time for a chat over a cup of tea afterwards are on the programme for the meeting in Alexandra on Monday. Organised by the Central Otago Life Matters group and Casper (Community Action on Suicide Prevention, Education and Research), the evening is aimed at building on the momentum gained during the last series of meetings on suicide prevention, held throughout the district last September.
Otago regional manager for Casper, Julie Duffy, of Alexandra, said a wealth of information and contact details would be available at Monday's meeting.
The Life Matters group has also been set up to consider a district-wide strategy for suicide prevention. It comprises about 30 members, including police, health authorities, counsellors, mental health officials and individuals.
Group president Greg Dobson will be one of the speakers at Monday's meeting, along with Mrs Duffy, and Central Otago police sub-area supervisor Senior Sergeant Ian Kerrisk.
The guest speaker is Prof Roger Mulder, head of psychological medicine at the University of Otago, who is based in Christchurch. Suicide prevention co-ordinator with the Southern District Health Board and Public Health South, Paul Martin, will speak about his role and implementation of a suicide action plan for the wider region.
Mental health workers and representatives from other agencies will also be at the meeting and there would be ''ample'' time for questions from the floor, she said.
Get help
Where to seek help:
• Lifeline: 0800 543-354
• Depression Helpline (8am-to midnight) 0800 111-757
• Healthline: 0800 611-116
• Youthline: 0800 376-633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz
