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SICK PARADE - Suicide watch and you |
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The strategy has a primary focus on the mental health of Defence personnel, through prevention and evidence-based treatment, to maximise retention and enhance quality of life for members. The original working group that developed ADFMHS made 73 recommendations outlining areas in which the mental health of ADF personnel could be improved. These recommendations have evolved into six key initiatives: - Integration and enhancement of ADF Mental Health Services; - ADF Mental Health Research and Surveillance, Enhanced Resilience and Wellbeing in the ADF; - ADF Critical Incident Mental Health Support; - ADF Suicide Prevention Program; and, - ADF Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Program. What causes suicidal behaviour? Everyone has different levels of tolerance to stress and pain and these levels change over time in individuals. We all try to cope as best we can during significant, and sometimes painful, changes in our lives. However, the burden can be so great that an individual is overwhelmed to the point of suicide. While there is no typical profile for someone who may contemplate suicide, there are some common risk factors and signs we all need to be aware of in an effort to save lives. Risk factors can include: - Significant loss, for example, death of a loved one or pet, loss of a relationship, loss of self-esteem or community standing; - Relationship difficulties; - Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness; - Past history of suicidal behaviour or self-harm; - Increased alcohol and/or other drug use; - Legal or financial trouble; and, - Seemingly endless emotional pain. All of these can be compounded by the absence of current and accessible social or family support. What to look for Risk factors and signs are those things that may alert us to the possibility that someone is thinking about suicide. If we recognise or suspect signs of suicide, it is very important to offer or seek help. Observers can be scared by these signs but it is vital to remember that intervention can save lives. Signs may include: - Talk or hints of suicide; - Preoccupation with death; - Giving away possessions; - Saying ‘goodbye’; - Isolation or withdrawal; - Increased alcohol and/or drug use; - Lack of interest in hobbies, appearance, or the future; and, - Performance difficulties. The supervisor’s role Workplace supervisors can play an important role in suicide prevention and intervention: - Be suicide aware so you can identify personnel at risk; - Recognise that intervention and suicide prevention requires effort from everyone; - Actively support intervention efforts; - Be aware of the resources that can assist your people; and, - Take all hints of suicide and suicide-related behaviour seriously. Esprit de corps Esprit de corps is an important factor in many aspects of life, not just suicide prevention. Commanders and supervisors at all levels can do much to engender it: - Build a culture that fosters belonging and ‘looking after your mates’; - Encourage sporting and other team-building activities outside the work environment; - Offer social support; - Develop a culture that encourages early intervention; and, - Support those who seek help. Myth busted A common myth surrounding suicide and intervention is the fear that to ask a potentially suicidal person if they need help would tip them over the edge to commit suicide sooner. In fact, the exact opposite is true – the evidence clearly says so. More information on Defence’s Mental Health Strategy and suicide prevention can be found at www.defence.gov.au/dpe/dhs/mentalhealth/
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