The Suicide Mortality Review Committee says health and social policy should not ignore Asian mental health.
The Suicide Mortality Review Committee reviews suicide deaths and advises the Health Quality & Safety Commission on how to reduce the number of these deaths in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Its latest report, released today, focuses on understanding deaths by suicide in the Asian population of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Professor Rob Kydd, chair of the committee, says a proactive approach is required now to address suicide in this diverse and growing population group before rates increase.
âSuicide rates for Asian people have fluctuated but appear to be increasing. With the projected growth in the Asian population, we are concerned the rate may rise,â he says.
The Asian population in New Zealand is the third largest behind European and MÄori, and is projected to surpass MÄori and Pacific population groups by 2038.
Death by suicide in the Asian population is relatively low. However, the committee says these deaths are avoidable and create unnecessary suffering for those bereaved by suicide.
âWith culturally and linguistically diverse groups challenging our mental health system there is a need for health services to be culturally appropriate.
âWhile the Government has a responsibility to focus on the tangata whenua of Aotearoa, and support Pacific populations, policies for Asian and refugee communities are under-developed.â
The report says racism and discrimination are leading factors contributing to suicide.
âTackling racism in all forms, along with social disadvantage, isolation and exclusion, will have a large impact on suicide rates.â
Shame and stigma around mental illness is also an issue for Asian populations.
âMental distress and suicide affecting Asian people in this country has been a relatively hidden issue. To many Asian people, mental health issues and suicide are stigmatising and shaming, creating a barrier to seeking help.
âThe biggest inequity is evident in MÄori suicide rates, and the committee is looking into the factors behind suicide for rangatahi (youth) and wahine and kĊtiro (women and girls).
âHowever, the Asian population is growing in New Zealand and the lack of suicide prevention strategies for Asian people living in here is a concern,â he says.
The committee acknowledges those who died by suicide and recognises the ongoing pain and hurt of family and whÄnau bereaved by suicide.
âIt is our collective responsibility, across all social, justice, and health agencies, to act now on what we know. We cannot wait any longer.â
(All content in this article is courtesy Health Quality & Safety Commissions New Zealand)
Where to get help
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Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342
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Need to Talk? 1737 call or text (mental health, depression, and anxiety counselling)
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Lifeline: 0800 543 354
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Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 | 0508 TAUTOKO; 12 noon to 12 midnight (those in distress, or those who are concerned about the wellbeing of someone else).
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Aunty Dee: www.auntydee.co.nz
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OUTLine NZ: 0800 688 5463
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Youthline: 0800 376 633
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Skylight: www.skylight.org.nz
-TIN Bureau