About

The Approach

Taking real steps to prevent suicide requires a whole of community approach. It must draw on the expertise of health professionals, but more importantly will develop a partnership with key agencies and the community. Community education will focus heavily on dispelling the myths which surround suicide, highlighting the warning signs which people who express suicidal thoughts may give and acknowledge where individuals can seek help locally. All education follows best practice methods to ensure that these issues are presented in the most appropriate way. During April 1998, Youth Suicide Prevention in the Greater Murray officially launched the Make A Noise campaign. Make A Noise is the central concept which has been adopted to engage young people in help seeking behaviour. This is promoted on four levels. Peer Support Initiatives which encourage young people to talk to their friends about problems and to develop reciprocative listening skills to enable them to detect when a friend may be in trouble and to talk to friends about problems that they may be having themselves. Talk to an Adult Encourage young people to talk to an adult they trust about problems. Included in this initiative will be the establishment of community based projects (e.g. sports coaches) in assessment of suicidality and active listening skills to ensure that those involved with young people are ready to listen. Promotion of Existing Source of Information
Kids Help Line - 1800 55 1800