4th National Suicide Prevention Symposium28th November 2006University of Otago

Suicide Prevention Information New Zealand

Talofa lava, Malo e Lelei, Ni sa bula vinaka, Taloha ni, Kia orana, Fakalofa lahi atu, Kia ora, Welcome and warm Pacific

greetings

Outline

• Welcome and Tatalo (opening prayer)• Introductions• Suicide Prevention and Pasefika

Communities• NZ Suicide Prevention Strategy 2006-

2016• Open Discussion• Closing and Tatalo

Introductions

• Name• Organisation• Role• How do you see your role preventing

suicide?

Suicide Prevention: Pacific Communities

Statistics:• 22 deaths by suicide (15 males, 7 females), 2003• 18 deaths , 2002• 22 deaths, 2001

Pacific peoples are ranked third compared to other ethnic groups (Maori, Asian and European/Other) for rates of suicide. Trends according to specific population groups (eg, age groups) can not be accurately reported due to small numbers

Suicide Prevention: Pacific Communities

Pacific Demographics

• Diverse population- Island-born and NZ-born/NZ-raised- languages, values, cultural norms,

customs• Predominantly a young population• 6.5% of New Zealand’s population• Geographically clustered in low socioeconomic

areas• Often living in overcrowded conditions• Low family or household incomes

Suicide Prevention: Pacific Communities

Pacific Demographics cont’d…• Increased number accessing mental health

services• Strong sense of belonging to families, church

and community• Individual’s identity and wellbeing are

traditionally dependent on family heritage, family connections, roles and responsibilities.

• Family and church provide significant and meaningful relationships, which can be a protective factor

New Zealand Suicide Prevention Strategy 2006-2016

Goal 1 Promote mental health and wellbeing, and prevent mental health problems

Goal 2 Improve the care of people who are experiencing mental disorders associated with suicidal behaviours

Goal 3 Improve the care of people who make non-fatal suicide attempts

Goal 4 Reduce access to means of suicide

Goal 5 Promote the safe reporting and portrayal of suicidal behaviour by the media

Goal 6 Support families/whanau, friends and others affected by a suicide or suicide attempt

Goal 7 Expand the evidence about rates, causes and effective interventions

Open Discussion

Fa’afetai tele lava

Magnum Tuipulotu SPINZ

Community Liaison

DDI 09 300 7029Mob 0274 400750

Email magnum@spinz.org.nz