Suicide Prevention in Australian Aboriginal Communities: A Review of Past and Present Programs |
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| Authors: | Rebecca Ridani BSc Psych Fiona L. Shand PhD Helen Christensen PhD Kathryn McKay PhD Joe Tighe BSc Psych Jane Burns PhD Ernest Hunter MD |
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| Affiliation: | 1. Black Dog Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia;2. University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia;3. Men's Outreach Service Inc., Broome, WA, Australia;4. University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia;5. Young and Well Cooperative Research Centre, Melbourne, Vic., Australia;6. Remote Area Mental Health Service, Cairns, Qld, Australia |
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| Abstract: | A review of Aboriginal suicide prevention programs were conducted to highlight promising projects and strategies. A content analysis of gray literature was conducted to identify interventions reported to have an impact in reducing suicidal rates and behaviors. Most programs targeted the whole community and were delivered through workshops, cultural activities, or creative outlets. Curriculums included suicide risk and protective factors, warning signs, and mental health. Many programs were poorly documented and evaluations did not include suicidal outcomes. Most evaluations considered process variables. Results from available outcome evaluations suggest that employing a whole of community approach and focusing on connectedness, belongingness and cultural heritage may be of benefit. Despite the challenges, there is a clear need to evaluate outcomes if prevention is to be progressed. |
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