It's World Suicide Prevention Day, and the Government has marked it with an announcement that a new strategy and action plan are being developed.

Health Minister Jonathan Coleman says around 500 Kiwis take their own lives every year, and mental health is a key focus for the Government.

Dr Coleman says funding for mental health services has been increased and district health boards have put in place suicide prevention plans.

They include MidCentral's focus on cyber bullying, Northland's social media campaign to raise awareness, and Canterbury's new online suicide prevention service.

"This work is part of the suicide prevention action plan 2013-2016 which comes to an end this year," Dr Coleman said.

"Work is under way to develop a new strategy and action plan, following a series of national workshops."

Those who work with the complex issue of suicide in New Zealand say connections can be key to prevention.

"Loneliness is a serious public health issue with a simple solution," says Mental Health Foundation chief executive Shaun Robinson.

"You don't need to be a mental health professional to ask someone how they're doing. A simple Kia ora or G'day can be the start of a conversation that can save a life," he says.

The international theme for World Suicide Prevention Day this year is connect, communicate and care.

Suicide is preventable and support from people who care can help people to find a way through, Mr Robinson says.

If you're worried about someone, ask them directly, he says.

"Listen calmly to their answer without judgement and give them as much time as they need to talk through what they are experiencing," he said.

Newstalk ZB Christchurch host Chris Lynch interviewed a man who lost his younger brother, aged 47, to suicide. 

Are you affected by an issue in this article? Here's where to get help:

Lifeline - 0800 543 354
Suicide Crisis Helpline (open 24/7) - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
Samaritans - 0800 726 666
Youthline (open 24/7) - 0800 376 633. Text 234 for free between 8am and midnight, or email [email protected].

0800 WHATSUP (0800 9428 787), Open between 1pm and 10pm on weekdays and from 3pm to 10pm on weekends. Online chat is available from 7pm to 10pm every day at www.whatsup.co.nz.

Healthline - 0800 611 116
For more information about support and services available to you, contact the Mental Health Foundation's free Resource and Information Service on 09 623 4812 during office hours or email [email protected]

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.