In Australia and globally, suicide and suicide attempt remains a significant public health concern. Recent research estimates that 65,000 people attempt suicide in Australia every year, affecting families, friends and communities.
We know that loved ones, family members and friends provide most of the practical and emotional support to those who have attempted suicide. At the same time, this support role is often fulfilling but can also be challenging and stressful for caregivers.
Whilst there is a growing range of programs and resources for the person who has attempted suicide, there is limited research on the needs of those who provide care and support. As a result, very few programs and resources specifically focus on caregivers of a person who has attempted suicide.
Everymind is trialling a new tailored program to support families and friends who care for someone who has attempted suicide. This short, self-paced program includes two core modules and a range of complementary optional mini-modules that focus on the needs, experiences and challenges of caregiving.
The Minds Together program for family and friends supporting someone who has attempted suicide is free to access and delivered online, for caregivers to complete at a time and place convenient to them.
To find out more and to take part visit: mindstogether.org.au
I am a sister of a person that is unstable and I am attempting to support her but over the past 30 years she continues to be self destructive and I am not sure what path to take to continue to support her as this puts strain on my own marriage.