Philip Receives 752 Support Requests in 2018

6th January, 2019

In October Philip was interviewed by The Beacon Project, an initiative which concentrates on mental health, suicide prevention and awareness and a copy of that interview is attached below.

At that time, Philip disclosed 644 cases, in addition to the ongoing education, support & assistance initiatives that the Lions Club of Whitford and Philip undertake in the community.

Today Philip issued a Press Release confirming that during the 2018 calendar year, the Lions Club of Whitford and he received 752 specialised support requests, including from local families within the Cities of Joondalup and Wanneroo, some of which from children at our local schools. These were:
     - 43 suicide attempts with the youngest case involving a 7-year-old child;
     - 72 mental health related issues;
     - 208 alcohol and/ or drug related issues;
     - 163 requests regarding cyber-safety and cyber-bullying;
     - 187 requests for school, university, associated bullying and stress students are experiencing; and
     - 79 requests regarding identity, sex, sexual health and sexual abuse.

It's unfortunate that within Australia, suicide is still the leading cause of death for Australians between the ages of 15 and 44. It's also estimated that for every suicide, 30 people attempt to end their lives which equates to approximately 65,000 suicide attempts yearly.

During the last three weeks prior to Christmas, Philip, Terri, their family and their fellow Lions Club of Whitford members spent time in the community including at Lakeside Joondalup and Westfield Whitford City Shopping Centres. They also volunteered and supported Christmas events, sold Lions Christmas cakes, undertook Christmas gift wrapping and provided hampers, presents, toys and gift cards throughout the local community and to families in need.

What was evident (observed and reported to Philip) was there's a lot of concern and stress within the community, particularly regarding mental health, drug & alcohol, cyber-bullying, financial and coping with life's challenges generally, which is effecting many families and individuals alike.

As Philip explained, every life is precious and more needs to be done to support our community, and in our region, Joondalup Hospital and associated mental health services is under significant stress with services difficult to access at present.

Philip urges everyone to not become another statistic and if you find yourself in a position of risk, or needing help, support, advice or assistance to please contact Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800, Lifeline on 13 11 44 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

We're Australian and we look after one another. As a community, fellow neighbour and human being, more needs to be done and Philip commits to continue doing whatever he can to help and support our fellow Australian's wherever possible.

Philip Couper