WARNING: This interview discusses suicide. Helplines can be found at the bottom of the page

There are calls for intervention on alcohol, and the damage it can cause.  

An Otago University study has found just over a quarter of suicides involve acute alcohol use. It was found to be a contributing factor, especially for Maori, Pasifika and younger people. 

Lead Author Dr Rose Cross-in says this research needs to prompt action.  

She says it's good timing with Chloe Swarbrick's Alcohol Harm Minimisation Bill coming to Parliament by the end of the year.  

Alcohol Healthwatch Executive Director Dr Nicki Jackson joined Francesca Rudkin.

LISTEN ABOVE

WHERE TO GET HELP:

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

For counselling and support

Lifeline: Call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP)

Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)

Need to talk? Call or text 1737

Depression helpline: Call 0800 111 757 or text 4202

For children and young people

Youthline: Call 0800 376 633 or text 234

What's Up: Call 0800 942 8787 (11am to 11pm) or webchat (11am to 10.30pm)

The Lowdown: Text 5626 or webchat

For help with specific issues

Alcohol and Drug Helpline: Call 0800 787 797

Anxiety Helpline: Call 0800 269 4389 (0800 ANXIETY)

OutLine: Call 0800 688 5463 (0800 OUTLINE) (6pm-9pm)

Safe to talk (sexual harm): Call 0800 044 334 or text 4334

All services are free and available 24/7 unless otherwise specified.

For more information and support, talk to your local doctor, hauora, community mental health team, or counselling service. The Mental Health Foundation has more helplines and service contacts on its website.