An open letter has been penned to the Illawarra and Shoalhaven community after a spate of suicides in the region.
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There are 18 signatories to the letter including the region's mayors, state politicians and members of the Illawarra Shoalhaven Suicide Prevention Collaborative - collectively vowing to combat mental health.
The letter states they have "been profoundly saddened by a number of suicide deaths" and offered "heartfelt thoughts and sympathy" to bereaved families and friends, while pledging to promote and improve the wellbeing and safety of all.
"Losing someone to suicide is difficult and complex for any family or community," it stated.
"The recent impact has been profound for the entire region and has affected multiple schools, many families and young people, places of work, and community groups.
"People are working across agencies and sectors to monitor and reduce risk, promote help seeking, connect people to services, and communicate helpful information."
The letter also goes on to explain each level of government is aware of the region's issues and will work together to combat suicide with an "intensive approach", which will involve community services, education sectors, police, health, bereavement services, hospitals, local council and other critical agencies.
"It is important that we all work together as parents/carers, families, and friends to play a pivotal role in building resilience, promoting help seeking, and connecting with each other," the letter said.
If you are worried about someone in your family or community please reach out to professionals like your GP, local counsellors, grief services, or community services, or call one of the 24/7 numbers listed below.
- Lifeline 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
- NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511
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