Lifeline Australia is calling on Victorians in crisis and contemplating suicide to keep reaching out for help after data released today by the Victorian Coroners Court showed an 11 per cent decrease in suicides since in 2021 versus 2020, Lifeline Chair John Brogden said.
"The Coroner's data shows that between 1 January and 31 July this year 384 Victorians died by suicide. In the same period last year (2020) 436 Victorians died by suicide.
"While every life lost to suicide is a tragedy, this is an 11 per cent reduction or 52 fewer lives lost by suicide. An 11% decrease shows that more people are reaching out for support and it is saving lives.
"182,000 Victorians called Lifeline in this period because they were in crisis, 20 per cent more than in 2019. This is not all bad news – it means they got the support they needed when they needed it.
"Lifeline has never been busier, but the good news it means Victorians who need support reaching out and getting it.
"Anyone who needs support can call Lifeline at any time of the day or night on 13 11 14. Lifeline's volunteers have been there for Australians all throughout this pandemic and we continue to be here for you now.
"This is also a reminder to the community to continue supporting those doing it tough.
"Reach out, stay connected and never underestimate your power to make a positive difference on those around you.
"Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy and our thoughts are with those who have lost a loved one this year, Mr Brogden said.
Lifeline is Australia's leading suicide prevention service, operating the 13 11 14 telephone line within 40 centres around the nation.
The service expects to respond to well over one million requests for support by phone, online chat or text this year and will create an average of 120 safety plans to keep a person experiencing suicidal ideation safe every day.
