Residz Team 2 min read
Meeting their basic needs is really stressing out many Aussies. For the first time, more than half of Australian families (56%) are reporting elevated cost-of-living distress beyond normal levels in the September Quarter.
The latest Suicide Prevention Australia Community Tracker shows that ‘cost-of-living and personal debt’ is the highest cause of distress (46%), the fifth quarter in a row it has topped the list of stressors.
It’s also a significant increase on both the previous quarter (40%) and the same time last year (40%). And cost-of-living as a cause of distress is nearly double each of the other top issues stressing out Aussies in the September 2023 quarter:
What these figures mean is that the idyllic dream of owning a home and building a future for families is becoming a nightmare for many Australians.
As well, the rising cost of living has triggered a sense of desperation, particularly in parents with children. Suicide Prevention Australia has announced that families with children below the age of 18 are twice as likely to reach out to a frontline suicide prevention service compared to the national average. These households have shown alarming rates of suicidal tendencies (22%) and mental illness diagnosis (25%) in the past year.
The burden of mortgage and rent, which historically symbolised security and stability, has become an anchor of anxiety. These numbers underscore that the housing crisis isn’t merely about bricks and mortar; it’s deeply interwoven with the mental wellbeing of our community.
Suicide Prevention Australia CEO, Nieves Murray, highlighted the urgency of the situation, terming the findings as a clear "warning sign".
In a press release announcing the tracker’s results, she said, “Feeding the family and keeping a roof over our heads are two of the most basic human needs. We must be prepared and proactive to prevent distress and suicide rates from continuing to rise.”
Ms. Murray also underscored the need for the Federal Government to provide greater access to help and instill hope in the citizens, urging them to prioritise suicide prevention. As World Suicide Prevention Day approaches on 10th September, it serves as a stark reminder of our collective duty to combat this crisis.
Ms. Murray says there's a renewed call for the Albanese Federal Government to establish a national suicide prevention act, a move that could provide hope and much-needed assistance.
In light of the upcoming ABS Causes of Death data release, Ms. Murray emphasised the importance of not just understanding the reasons but also focusing on real-time data concerning suicide attempts to provide timely interventions.
SPA’s survey shows that some Australians are skeptical about the relief measures proposed in the May Budget. Over half (54%) believe that these measures won't alleviate the cost-of-living pressures, with a significant 25% fearing they might be even worse off.
Ms. Murray says that in these challenging times, it’s crucial for everyone to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. “Together, let’s embrace our collective responsibility, champion hope and take meaningful action to save lives,” she says.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is always available. Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467. In emergencies, always dial 000.