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People affected by mental illness are at far higher risk of ending their own lives than others. That's why suicide prevention is integral to all of SANE Australia's activities, from development of resources through to staff training, and special projects too.
Staying Alive
The SANE Guide to Staying Alive has been developed for people with a mental illness who experience suicidal thoughts, with information and useful hints from people who have 'been there' themselves, as well as carers and health professionals. The Guide provides advice from all these experts on dealing with these thoughts, preparing for times when you have them, and making plans with others on how to get help if you feel you might attempt suicide. More >>
Help at the end of the line
As calls to the SANE 1800 Helpline increase in number, so do the number of calls from people worried that they, or someone they know, may try to end their life. As well as the usual rigorous orientation, then, all SANE Helpline staff receive specialist training in procedures for handling suicide-related calls, and also have debriefing available after such calls. Call 1800 18 SANE (7263) or contact the Helpline Online.
Get the facts
A suite of SANE Factsheets are available on this website giving the facts about suicide in Australia, how to get help if you are feeling suicidal, and - importantly - how to help someone else if you fear they may be thinking of ending their life. More >>
Mental Illness and Bereavement Project
Suicide or being a missing person have a profound effect on others, especially when mental illness is involved. In fact, research suggests that friends and family who are bereaved in this way are 2-5 times more likely to die by suicide themselves.
A new SANE Australia project has been established to tackle this issue, helping to improve the capacity of those bereaved to cope, and to help reduce their risk of becoming suicidal themselves.
An essential first step was consultation with those affected and organisations working in the area, including the National Missing Persons Coordination Centre, the Compassionate Friends, and other bereavement services.
Based on what was learned during the consultations, the project is now focusing on development and delivery of a suite of resources and training, including:
For more information, email sarah.coker@sane org or call (03) 9682 5933.
The Mental Illness and Bereavement Project is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, under the National Suicide Prevention Strategy.
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