SA Suicide Prevention Plan

Wellbeing SA and the Premier’s Council on Suicide Prevention are developing South Australia’s next Suicide Prevention Plan – in partnership with the community.

We are encouraging South Australians to have a say on what will make a difference in preventing suicide in our state. Our public consultation starts on 15 March and will continue until 17 May, 2021

Reducing the number of suicides in SA is a high priority for the SA Government, which has appointed a new Premier’s Advocate for Suicide Prevention and Community Resilience.

We need to hear from all South Australians – it’s the experiences and wisdom of people which can help us understand what we need to do to prevent suicide in our community.

Are there ways we could improve what is being done to prevent suicide?

Do you have ideas about new initiatives?

What else could help?

You can talk to us in lots of different ways:

• fill out a survey
• host a conversation
• create artwork
• email your views to wellbeingsa.suicideprevention@sa.gov.au
• phone us on 1800 955 709 (Monday to Friday, 10.00 am-4.00 pm)
• write to us at PO Box 189 Rundle Mall SA 5000

Using your ideas and comments, we will develop a draft in September, 2021. Then we’ll come back to you to seek your feedback on the draft to ensure we’re on the right track.

Talking about suicide can raise all sorts of feelings. If you’re worried about how you’re feeling and would like to talk to someone, here are some numbers you can call:

• Lifeline, phone 13 11 14
• Suicide Call Back Service, phone 1300 659 467
• Lived Experience Telephone Support Service (LETSS), phone 1800 013 755
• Kids’ Helpline (ages 5 to 25), phone 1800 55 1800
• Mensline, phone 1300 78 99 78
• beyondblue, phone 1300 22 4636
• Thirrili National Indigenous Postvention Service, phone 1800 805 801
• Grieflink
• QLife, phone 1800 184 527
• Open Arms – Veterans [and their families] 24 hour crisis support line 1800 011 046

For assistance in a mental health emergency, contact the South Australian Mental Health Triage (18 years and over), phone 13 14 65 (24 hours a day, seven days a week)

People who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment can contact us by phone using the National Relay Service.

People who do not use English as their first language can contact us and we will arrange interpreting services.

The Transilience Tree artwork depicts a child whose gaze is firmly fixed on a tree. Behind, a plant uncurls, while the right hand cups another. The tree canopy offers shade, while also fruitfully budding a bird in flight – a yellow bird of hope. The child’s legs are connected in the earth, demonstrating the inherent connection nature provides for the wellbeing of humanity. The artwork incorporates a series of small circles or dots to create the artwork to send a message that everyone is valued and important in the tapestry that is a healthy community.

The artwork uses the Wellbeing SA colour palette to depict the organisation’s dedication to the ongoing support of healthy and vibrant communities.

We’re so pleased you’re planning to host a conversation with your community!

It’s important to have this well planned. Talking about suicide can raise all sorts of feelings and if not handled well could upset or isolate some individuals. It’s also important observe people’s reactions to make sure they are safe.

To help with your planning and preparation please see the Conversations Matter resources developed by Everymind. Conversations Matter has been developed to assist communities to talk about suicide in ways that breaks down stigma and increases understanding and support for those thinking about suicide and/or those affected by suicide.

Please send your findings back to us by Monday 17 May 2021 via:

• email wellbeingsa.suicideprevention@sa.gov.au
• post to Wellbeing SA, PO Box 189, Adelaide SA 5000
• telephone 1800 955 709

Would you like additional support to facilitate conversations with your community? Please get in touch with us at wellbeingSA.SuicidePrevention@sa.gov.au

Are you a visual thinker? Do you communicate in images? Are you more comfortable with paint, clay, glue, or pencils than words? Wonderful! You can create alone or hold a group and workshop together. See Host a conversation for advice as well.

The content on this website talks about suicide and contains material that may be confronting or cause sadness or distress. If this content has raised any concerns for you or you need to talk to someone please contact Lifeline, telephone 13 11 14 or get in touch with other services listed below.