Across the United States and Australia, we are facing a national emergency — an epidemic that doesn’t make the nightly news often enough, but impacts every school, every workplace, every family, every neighbourhood.

In the United States, suicide is now the second-leading cause of death among people aged 10–24.

Every year, over 49,000 Americans take their own lives — the highest number ever recorded.

That’s roughly one person every 11 minutes.

More teenagers and young adults die by suicide than by cancer, car accidents, or homicide.

In Australia, the picture is just as heartbreaking.

We lose around 3,500 Australians to suicide every single year.

It is the leading cause of death for children and young people aged 15 to 24, taking more of our sons and daughters than any disease or accident.

And in some Indigenous communities, the rates are among the highest in the developed world.

These are not just numbers — these are classmates, teammates,

brothers,

sisters,

sons,

daughters, apprentices, colleagues,

And neighbours.

And here’s the part that is hardest to hear…

For every one person who dies by suicide, at least 20 more attempt it.

‘Behind every attempt is a cry for help — often unheard.

We’re dealing with rising anxiety, depression,

financial stress, collapsing community connections,

social media pressures,

family breakdown, addiction,

trauma…

And most of all: an epidemic of loneliness.

In the wealthiest societies in history, people —

especially our young people

— have never felt more isolated.

But here’s the truth I want every listener to take to heart:

Suicide is preventable.

Connection saves lives.

One conversation can change everything.

So today, we’re going to talk openly, honestly, and without judgment.

And we’re going to give you some of the tools to recognise the signs, to ask the hard questions, and to support the people you love — before it’s too late.

Our guest today is someone who is committed to battling this epidemic

.

Trish Evelyn is the Founder The Big AL Foundation and is focused on the Emotional Fitness for the Next Generation.— a speaker, author , and mother of 7

And she joins us here today

Today’s program discusses suicide and mental health. If this is distressing, please listen with care. If you or someone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 in Australia or 988 in the United States.

This show is not a substitute for professional support.”