An ‘honeymoon effect’ is now believed to be behind the increase in suicides.
An Australian survey has found the suicide rate has increased by 7 per cent since 2010.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death in Australia and in Queensland the rate of suicide is the highest in the nation.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ (ABS) suicide survey found the increase was due to the recession, unemployment and mental health issues.
Its findings have been met with concern by the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which says it has heard of over 100 calls for help since the survey was conducted.
“It’s pretty obvious that the honeymoon effect is occurring, and I think it’s pretty well documented,” NSPL Lifeline Director Dr John Brown said.
Dr Brown said the suicide toll could be as high as 150,000 people in the state, as many as the number of people in Queensland.
Queensland’s suicide rate is higher than the national average, but it is still well below other states.
Brisbane suicide toll rises to 715 Queysland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced a plan to increase funding for the Queensland suicide hotline.
Ms Palaszlczuk said more resources would be provided to help those who are seeking help, but added she would not be providing extra funds to the national helpline.
She said the Queensland Government was aware of the findings and was working on a plan for future funding.
Mental health crisis in Queensland is a national issue Queursland’s Suicide Prevention and Crisis Intervention Service (SPICIS) is providing support to those who have experienced a mental health crisis, such as an attempted suicide or a suicide attempt, and has increased services for the first time in nearly 10 years.
Chief executive of the Queensland Mental Health Service, Catherine Smith, said the service had increased the number and types of support services available for people who had mental health challenges.
In a statement, Ms Smith said more than 1,400 services were currently in place across the state and that it was working to meet demand.
If you or someone you know needs help please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
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