Whilst suicide rates for males have reduced, the rate of suicidality in females has almost doubled (40%). The figures reveal an end to an overall rise which has occurred over the last 15 years.
According to Youth Insearch CEO Stephen Lewin no access to trauma-informed programs which acknowledge childhood trauma will result in little movement in suicide rates.
“We recognise the NSW Government’s work in this space, and although suicide causes such as anxiety and depression due to world events and social media pressures must be considered, they do not tell the full story of youth suicide in this state.”
Approximately 20% of young Australians accessing mental health services experience complex trauma because of three or more adverse life events.
“Young people, often forgotten by the traditional government model, find these service methods confronting, and will likely not heal as a result,” added Lewin.
Related: New report shows current Mental Health Model is leading to a ‘Forgotten Middle’
“We do not ask young people what is wrong with them, but rather what has happened to them. Through healing past trauma, we can empower the forgotten middle, and guide them back onto a positive life path.”
The comments come following the release of NSW suicide data, and statements from Mental Health Minister Bronnie Taylor calling for NSW Health to work with schools and community organisations to find ways to tackle the issue.
Youth Insearch continues to lobby the state and federal government to fund a trauma-informed peer-to-peer model to support the existing headspace service.
Related: Youth Insearch receives funding for Supporting Healthy Transitions to High School Project