Bryan Ward - Depression and Help

With Robin Williams' tragic death a lot of us are asking how a man with wealth, fortune and family could still be depressed and take his own life.

If you are affected by his death and need someone to talk to, please reach out for help. Keep an eye on your friends and family who may be vulnerable, and encourage them to seek help if they need it.

Many, many people care very deeply about the experiences of people who are in distress, and want to help. A good first port of call is your GP, or phone a helpline such as Lifeline 0800 543 354 or the Suicide Prevention Helpline 0508 828 865.  

Research has demonstrated that there is a strong relationship between suicide reporting and a rise in suicidal thoughts and behaviours. The risk increases when someone identifies with a person whose suicide is reported and when stories are prominent or repetitive. Stories about suicide have the greatest impact on people who are already vulnerable, and this risk increases when the story is about a celebrity.

When a well-known person dies by suicide, and the media covers it prominently and repeatedly (as with Mr Williams' death), vulnerable people are put at risk, but PLEASE remember that help is available, and to get started please have a look below.

• www.spinz.org.nz/
• www.leva.co.nz/
• Youth services: (06) 3555 906
• Youthline: 080...0 376 633
• Kidsline: 0800 543 754 (4pm to 6pm weekdays)
• Whatsup: 0800 942 8787 (noon to midnight)
• The Word
• Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 (24-hour service)
• Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
• CASPER Suicide Prevention

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.