Bob Jones over at No Punched Pulled has posted a cutting comment on what he sarcastically describes as a “new police service.”
He was referring to the man in Kurow who threatened to kill himself and who when the Police arrived to help they ended up shooting and killing him. This phenomenon is often referred to as “suicide by cop” and it is very sad to see it happening here in New Zealand. According to media reports, the man who was aged in his sixties was “respected worldwide” as a fishing guide and a friend to many” and had no history with police.
The Chrismas period is often a stressful time for people and if any of you reading this are in the grip of the black dog and are starting to entertain any dark thoughts please reach out for help don’t suffer in silence.
See your doctor or local mental health provider and be honest about how you are feeling. Ring one of the below helplines. Tell a loved one or a friend. Just don’t do nothing. Suicide is a short term solution to a temporary problem. Make sure that you get through this Holiday time in one piece. You are important and you will get through this.
If you need someone to talk to:
- 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP) (available 24/7)
- https://www.lifeline.org.nz/services/suicide-crisis-helpline
- YOUTHLINE: 0800 376 633
- NEED TO TALK? Free call or text 1737 (available 24/7)
- KIDSLINE: 0800 543 754 (available 24/7)
- WHATSUP: 0800 942 8787 (1pm to 11pm)
- DEPRESSION HELPLINE: 0800 111 757 or TEXT 4202