Child suicide figures cause concern

An Australian child is lost every week to suicide and more than 50 others are hospitalised for deliberate self-harm.
 

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These alarming figures came to light in the Children’s Rights Report 2014 tabled by the National Children’s Commissioner Megan Mitchell in Federal Parliament last week.

The report reveals Kids Helpline connected with 6503 children and teenagers who called or made online contact to discuss suicidal thoughts in 2012-13.

Young people who contemplate suicide often feel disconnected from everyone around them. Support from a parent, sibling, family member or friend can help reduce their sense of isolation and desperation.

If you believe a child you know is having unsafe thoughts or is showing signs of emotional distress it is important to reach out and start a conversation about what is going on for them. There is no easy way to start this conversation, but it is important that you do.

Visit our website for some tips on how to start a conversation about suicide.

If young people want to talk to someone they can call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or use email or web counselling services. No issue is too big or small.

They can also visit the Hot Topics section on the Kids Helpline website for advice on a range of issues. We also offer advice for parents.

Give us your feedback about the issues facing kids and young people today. Comment below.

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