21 Jun 2021

Unimaginable loss during pandemic

From Generation Covid, 7:00 am on 21 June 2021

During last year's lockdown, broadcasting student Jessica Dermody was staying at her parent’s farm in Southland when her uncle died by suicide.

Jessica and her father at her 21st Birthday party.

Jessica and her father at her 21st Birthday party. Photo: Jessica Dermody

This story is about the family's struggle to grieve and come together for support during a time when social distancing was the rule. 

Generation Covid is available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Radio Public, Radio Bean and other podcast providers.  

Produced by Jessica Dermody 

Emma Dermody above the family farm in Southland.

Emma Dermody above the family farm in Southland. Photo: Jessica Dermody

Where to get help:

NZ Police

Victim Support 0800 842 846

Rape Crisis 0800 88 33 00

Rape Prevention Education

Empowerment Trust

HELP Call 24/7 (Auckland): 09 623 1700, (Wellington): be 04 801 6655 - 0

Safe to talk: a 24/7 confidential helpline for survivors, support people and those with harmful sexual behaviour: 0800044334.

Mosaic - Tiaki Tangata Peer support for males who have experienced trauma and sexual abuse: 0800 94 22 94

Women's Refuge: (0800 733 843)

It's Not OK (0800 456 450)

Shine: 0508 744 633

Victim Support: 0800 650 654

HELP Call 24/7 (Auckland): 09 623 1700, (Wellington): be 04 801 6655 - 0

The National Network of Family Violence Services NZ has information on specialist family violence agencies.

Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357

Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.

Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7) or text 4202

Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7)

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

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