Paul Grant was in his early 40s when he took his own life in 2015, having battled depression for about 20 years.
His sister, Krissi Grant, now dedicates her time to suicide prevention in the hope her younger brother’s death will inspire change.
Ms Grant lived in London for the past 20 years, but recently returned to Kareela to push forward with her cause.
She will meet with the Minister for Mental Health, Tanya Davies, on May 17 to discuss her mission.
“I’m putting myself out there. People need to talk about this more, and be more open to try to save lives because this is an epidemic,” she said.
“I want to become a voice for people living with this extraordinary heartbreak.”
National figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that in 2016, suicide was the leading cause of death among all people 15-44 years of age, and the second leading cause of death among those 45-54 years of age.
But depression and suicide rates for the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District are similar to or below the state average, according to NSW HealthStats.
Overall for South Eastern Sydney, cases of psychological distress have reduced, down from about 14 per cent in 2003 to about 9 per cent in 2015.
Suicide rates in the region are also on the decline, and hospitalisation for suicides are also lower than the state average.
Mental Health Australia recently welcomed announcements within the 2018-19 Federal Budget which will see new investments of $338 million for the mental health sector.
Measures will focus on three key areas – suicide prevention, older Australians and research.
There will also be an expansion of programs to support people leaving hospital after a suicide attempt.
Caringbah’s Matt McInnes reached out to Ms Grant after seeing her plight on social media.
The Anytime Fitness director of Miranda, Caringbah and Sylvania, is opening his gyms to the community for a free two-day event to raise money for suicide prevention this month.
The treadmill challenge, on May 25-26, aims to keep a treadmill going to 24 hours. Each person can nominate a time slot or show up and walk for 15 minutes.
This year’s national aim is to raise half a million dollars – up on last year’s $350,000.
“We are partnering with Suicide Prevention Australia and Plebs Pros and Personalities, and ask the public and local businesses to get involved,” Mr McInnes said.
“I have a family member and a close friend who committed suicide.
“It’s one of those things that is a tough subject to talk about because people get embarrassed. It causes so much pain and leaves so many questions unanswered.
“But this is a preventable cause of death.
“By creating more awareness we can get more support for people going through these bad times.
“It’s easy to turn a blind eye but I’d like to be known for taking a stance in making a difference.”
‘Tread Together’ starts at 6am.
A small donation is welcome and there will be a barbecue.
Anyone needing support can call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
