The unspoken

A recent newspaper editorial - from the Dominion Post - raised the issue of the non-reporting of suicides in the media. Media outlets - newspapers, radio, TV, etc - are not allowed to talk about suicide, or report a suicide, in the fear that such reports would encourage copycat acts. Unfortunately, New Zealand has one of the highest rates of suicide in the world.

I think it is important that this issue is out there and discussed.

If you need help - or are worried about a friend - there are places you can contact.

One of your first options should be Youthline. You can free text on 234; you can email them on talk@youthline.org.nz; or you can free phone them on 0800 37 66 33 (free only from a landline).

If you're dealing with grief, you can also try Skylight.

A good website for advice is Urge.

The library also has books which might help you through:

Teen suicide edited by Emily Schusterbauer

Self-harm and suicide by Jilliam Powell

After the suicide of someone you know by Tricia Irving Hendry and Leora Hirsh

Hello, cruel world: 101 alternative to suicide for teens, freaks, and other outlaws by Kate Bornstein

Help and understanding is available. Please use it.

- Annie