In Australia, more men die by suicide than women – for each female death by suicide there are approximately four male deaths.
This does not necessarily mean that men are more prone to suicide than women.
Some males are at higher risk of suicide – this is because of their experience of risk factors associated with suicide (eg: drug and alcohol use), and because they may have less protective factors that can work to prevent suicidal behaviour (less developed help-seeking skills and social support networks).
Indigenous males in Australia under 35 years of age have a rate of suicide that is estimated to be three times that of non-Indigenous males.
Males in rural and remote areas are 30% to 50% more likely to die by suicide than their urban counterparts. Male youth deaths by suicide in rural areas are about double that of metropolitan areas*.
* Suicide Prevention Australia (2010) Breaking the Silence: Suicide and Suicide Prevention in Australia. Chapter Four.
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Adding to the information provided by Lifeline - the research shows that while as many women as men may attempt suicide, men are more likely to choose more lethal means, so are more likely to die as a result of the attempt.
Suicide is usually an attempted solution to difficulties. If you are having suicidal thoughts, it's important to reach out for help if you can. Professional assistance can help you to stay alive long enough to find a less final way out of whatever troubles have led you to feeling that suicide may be the only answer. Lifeline is available throughout Australia and can be contacted on 131114. Suicideline is a free and confidential telephone service in Victoria that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They can be contacted on 1300 651 251.
All the best.
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