Sharing the burden of suicide

Today marks the 10th anniversary of World Suicide Prevention Day – but it doesn’t necessarily mean this complex issue is any closer to becoming acceptable dinner table talk.

For Naoko Ide, it is important to create an environment for people to open up about their thoughts and feelings in times of distress.

“If I am hearing someone talking about suicide that can be a good sign because at least then they’re opening up about the difficulties in their lives and there’s a chance to do something about it before anything drastic happens,” Ms Ide says.

Australian research last month revealed a GP’s sympathetic ear can be all that’s needed to prevent some older people from attempting suicide.

“Suicide is a very difficult topic to talk about because of the stigma that still surrounds it and may involve any number of risk factors, but we do know that any suicide prevention strategies need to be tailored to the individual’s specific needs,” Ms Ide explains.

A graduate of Griffith University’s Master of Suicidology, Ms Ide, is now a case manager for Brisbane-based community organisation Footprints – a support agency for people with mental illness or from disadvantaged backgrounds.

She works with the Resident Recovery Program to provide personalised lifestyle support to clients who may suffer from a range of mental illness such as schizophrenia, depression or personality disorders.

“We work within a client-centred approach whereby an individual identifies their own recovery goals and we support him/her to enhance their quality of life.

“To have meaningful activities and community connections and a safe, comfortable living environment enables people to find a more purposeful life, thus reducing the risk of suicide.”

She says some days can be “very tough” – especially when clients are facing crisis and there is a lack of after-hours community-based support services.

“For some clients moving from supported accommodation or hospital to independent living can be a challenging and lonely time.

“A lot of clients may have issues with chronic suicidality and, of course, that is very sad, but talking through things and building up a trusting relationship with someone can often be a very good start to alleviating things.”

About 65,000 Australians attempt to take their own lives each year. Of these attempts Australia loses about 2,500 loved ones. Readers seeking support can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.