This issue of Synergy focuses on the topic of Suicide Prevention. World Suicide Prevention Day 2009 acknowledged the importance of culture in suicidal behaviour with the theme for this year being "Suicide Prevention in Different Cultures". According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), suicide results in almost one million fatalities a year, which is almost one person every minute. The aftermath of suicide leaves thousands more people traumatised by the loss of a loved one.

In order to raise awareness of suicide prevention in Australia, this issue of Synergy overviews the latest suicide prevention initiatives, programs, resources and government strategic plans, as well as looking at a number of broader mental health issues.