Queensland’s suicide rate did not rise amid coronavirus pandemic, defying expectations, new research shows

Queensland’s suicide rate has not risen amid the coronavirus pandemic, defying expectations, however researchers and mental health workers still worry about a delayed effect and pockets of despair.

The Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention at Queensland’s Griffith University found the state’s suicide rate had remained at about 14 deaths per 100,000, despite the community enduring lockdowns and an economic recession.

Lead researcher Dr Stuart Leske said there had been evidence of suicide…