Human connection factors in suicide prevention
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eNews special edition
Welcome to the November Life in Mind eNews. This special edition explores how relationships can protect against or contribute to suicide risk.
If you would like to share suicide prevention-related research, news and current initiatives, please email lifeinmind@health.nsw.gov.au.
Sector news
Read some of the latest suicide prevention news in Australia
Relationships as a factor in suicide prevention
Understanding the risk and protective factors of suicide is vital for effective suicide prevention planning in Australia. Positive relationships provide social connection and a sense of belonging, which can be protective against the risk of suicide. Relationship breakdowns, social isolation and loneliness are identified as contributing factors to distress and a risk factor for suicide.
Promoting young men’s wellbeing
The Wellbeing and Prevention Coalition in Mental Health has released an Evidence into Practice Brief that explores effective strategies for improving young men’s mental health. It highlights the importance of gender-responsive, preventative approaches that address social expectations, barriers to help-seeking and support healthy relationships to shape young men’s wellbeing.
Addressing loneliness among rural youth by strengthening relationships
New research published in the International Journal of Mental Health Nursing highlights the importance of friendships and connections for young Australians, especially those living in rural areas. The findings call for more research into how friendship quality can prevent loneliness and support better mental health outcomes.
Q&A: Unpacking men's suicidality following relationship breakdown
Michael Wilson is the lead author of an international review examining men’s suicidality following relationship breakdown. This video Q&A explores why men are particularly vulnerable during separation, the psychological and social factors involved, and what services can do to better support men during this period.
Belonging every day: Connecting communities for mental wellbeing
Relationships Australia has relaunched its Neighbours Every Day campaign to inspire Australians to build belonging through daily connection. The campaign highlights how reducing loneliness can protect mental health across communities.
Inquiry launched into suicides and domestic and sexual violence
Minister for Social Services, Tanya Plibersek, has announced a parliamentary inquiry that will examine how domestic, family and sexual violence contributes to suicide in Australia. The inquiry aims to inform integrated prevention and support strategies for those affected by violence and trauma.
Translated research studies
A translation of suicide prevention research on the Life in Mind portal
Designing supports for family and friends who care for someone experiencing suicidal distressA workshop at the 2023 Roses in the Ocean Lived Experience of Suicide Summit invited attendees with lived experience to explore the role of information and peer support for family and friends supporting someone experiencing suicidal distress. |
A social prescribing model for suicide preventionResearchers have developed an evidence and expert informed model of social prescribing for suicide prevention in Australia. This project identified key components of the model and explored how to support its implementation within existing health and social systems in Australia. |
Highlights and happenings
Other featured content from across the Life in Mind portal
Loneliness and suicidal distress
People who feel disconnected or lacking meaningful social relationships are more vulnerable to psychological distress. While most people experience loneliness from time to time, long-term or severe loneliness can have serious effects on mental and physical health. Rather than being a minor, indirect factor, loneliness is often deeply intertwined with other risk determinants.
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Each edition of the Life in Mind eNews has some of the latest news and research in mental health and suicide prevention.
