The number of calls to Southern police relating to suicide continues to climb. Between July 2016 and May this year, Southern police were called to more than 1500 suicide threats or attempts — 4.5 a day. Southern district police mental health liaison officer Inspector Matenga Gray said the rise in suicide threats and self-harm incidents was an "international phenomenon with many theories as to why this may be". Officers received mental health training at Police College and further training once operational to prepare them for the task. "Police operationally work closely with mental health crisis teams, and health facilities to provide the best possible response.

Source: Otago Daily Times July 28, 2017 18:22 UTC