To all our interstate volunteers who organised a Service on National White Wreath Day - In remembrance of all victims of suicide held on the 29 May. Together we bring to the attention of all "Action Against Suicide" and we "Thank You"

We all know when we hear the word Cancer it leaves an imprint in our mind. We know it’s an illness and we also immediately think it can be fatal. We are sympathetic, understanding and we help and support each other.

Lately how often do we hear words such as Personality Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bi-polar, Depression, Paranoia or Schizophrenia do these words leave the same imprint in our minds as Cancer.But let there be no doubt that these can also, like Cancer, become a fatal illness.

For families left behind by those tragically taking their lives the hurt is no less traumatic yet society’s response in helping the surviving families is vastly different. No one seems to care or understand but yet they are as much a victim to the ills of society.

Suicide/Mental illness is shockingly common, affecting almost every Australian family directly or indirectly. It can strike a child, a mother, father, a grandparent or a co-worker. It can strike someone of any cultural background regardless of whether we are rich,famous or poor. It can strike at any stage of life, from childhood to old age. No community is unaffected, no school or workplace untouched.

Deaths by suicide out number those by Road Accidents, SIDS, AIDS and many other forms of death combined each year but because of the myths and stigmas associated with suicide/mental illness the wider community is not made aware of this tragedy.

We certainly don't want 'loved ones, friends,work colleagues tragic deaths to be classified as "Statistics Only" which is what is happening at present.

White Wreath Day received little or no coverage and ultimately it will be up to all of you to contact Prime Minister Julia Gillard and ask why won’t the Government allow media coverage when the White Wreath Assoc estimates in excess of 8,000 deaths in Australia every year by suicide.

We will be more than happy to publish your response in our quarterly newsletter.

The Hon Julia Gillard MP
Prime Minister
PO Box 6022
House of Representatives
Parliament House
CANBERRA ACT 2600

 

Fanita Clark
CEO