Men At High Risk Of Suicide

Trigger Warning: This article discusses suicide.

According to the latest figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, eight people die from suicide each day; six of them are men.

The study shows male suicides have increased by 41 per cent in the past decade, from 1,624 deaths in 2006 to 2,292 suicides in 2015.

With such staggering figures now released to the public, efforts are being shone on the gender suicide gap.

The Guardian reports if we reduced male suicide to the same level as female suicide, we could save the lives of more than 1,500 Australian men a year.

So, why is it that efforts to prevent male suicide haven't been successful?

The Guardian reports that current suicide prevention resources and initiatives are failing to reach men. For instance, Black Dog Institute launched a $14.7m project called Lifespan which aimed to train GPs on how to identify and assist people with suicidal thoughts. However, on average, men are less likely to visit the GP.

Glen Poole, founder of the Stop Male Suicide project, has suggested current tactics need to change if we are to close the gender suicide gap.

Writing for the Guardian, Poole suggests: "Firstly, we need to get better at tackling the social issues that men and boys face, rather than falling back on tired, ineffective stereotypes of stubborn, stoical blokes, who refuse to talk or get help."

"There are a number of social issues that affect men more profoundly in terms of suicide risk, including unemployment, relationship issues, being separated from their kids, being a victim of violence or abuse, alcohol and substance abuse, long-term illness, homelessness, social isolation and mental health disorders," Poole says.

"Every time we put the blame for male suicide on men not talking or getting help, we re-enforce unhelpful, macho beliefs that men should be strong, powerful and self-reliant."

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467.

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