It is estimated that over 40,000 Americans committed suicide in 2020. The loss of any life is devastating, but the loss of life due to suicide is exceptionally saddening. Suicide is the primary cause of mortality for Australians aged 15 to 44, taking the lives of almost nine people daily. According to some estimates, suicide attempts happen up to 30 times more often than fatalities. "Suicide has large effects when it happens. It impacts many people and has far-reaching consequences for family, friends, and communities," says Karen Kusuma, a University of New South Wales Ph.D. candidate in psychiatry at the Black Dog Institute, who investigates suicide prevention in adolescents.

The loss of any life can be devastating, but the loss of a life from suicide is especially tragic. Around nine Australians take their own life each day, and it is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15–44. Suicide attempts are more common, with some estimates stating that they occur up to 30 times as often as deaths. "Suicide has large effects when it happens. It impacts many people and has far-reaching consequences for family, friends and communities," says Karen Kusuma, a UNSW Sydney PhD candidate in psychiatry at the Black Dog Institute, who investigates suicide prevention in adolescents.