Health

Reducing self-harm and suicide in Indigenous communities

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UQ Health encompasses a culturally-tailored training course to address the rates of suicide among Indigenous people living in remote and rural Australia.

The course passes on the skills to intervene and potentially save a life when people recognise someone is struggling with their frame of mind.

The intervention model is scientifically proven and utilises group discussions, audio-visual learning aids and skills and practice development. Normalising the training, so it is akin to CPR training or any other first aid care, is one of the steps in destigmatising mental health.

Training is delivered in a culturally appropriate way and includes knowledge about the best way to refer someone for further treatment.

Researcher spotlight
Associate Professor Maree Toombs
Maree’s current projects include I-ASIST, a culturally-tailored training established to address the increasing rates of suicide among Indigenous people living in rural and remote areas.