Regions face higher stress levels

Rural and regional communities face unique challenges in preventing and recovering from the impact of suicide.

This is according to a new report released by the Federal Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler in Adelaide on Tuesday.

The report, Suicide in Rural and Remote Areas, found the common stress factors for these communities were extreme environmental events, financial and relationship problems and social isolation.

Australia’s rural localities face an increasing burden of death due to suicide with males, youth, farmers and indigenous people being the most vulnerable.

Australasian Centre for Rural and Remote Health chief executive Jennifer Bowers said although research was undertaken within Queensland’s remote communities, most aspects could be applied to those in the Goldfields.