Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention (ASPAC)
Abstract
The ways in which suicide prevention initiatives can target different stages of the suicidal process have been described by Mann et al. (2005). These authors argue that suicidal ideation may stem from stressful life events and/or psychiatric disorders. These factors can be influenced through education and awareness programs, screening of individuals at risk, and various treatments. However, it must be noted that while the impacts of environmental factors, such as stressful life events, can sometimes be reduced, the events themselves may be unavoidable. Aspects of suicide prevention can focus on building resilience as a way to combat the impacts of these inevitable events. Once suicidal ideation is present, it can be detected by screening individuals at risk. Before ideation leads to a suicidal act, it can be targeted through treating issues such as underlying disorders and impulsivity, hopelessness and/or pessimism. Other suicide prevention initiatives may also limit access to suicide means and exposure to negative or harmful examples in the media. Australia was the one of the first countries to reflect upon the national and global evidence which recognised the devastating consequences of suicidal behaviours (Jenkins and Kovess, 2002; Department of Health and Ageing, 2008). Since the early 1990s, the Department of Health and Ageing has led the national approach for suicide prevention. The National Youth Suicide Prevention Strategy 1995-1999 was further expanded into the National Suicide Prevention Strategy (NSPS); a strategic plan to prevent suicide across the whole lifespan. In 2000, the Living Is For Everyone: A Framework for Prevention of Suicide and Self-harm in Australia (LIFE Framework) was launched. This was later evaluated and further development led to the release of the Living is For Everyone (LIFE) Framework (2007)
