The most important conversation you’ll ever have: Check-in this World Suicide Prevention Day

Anchor Psychology Clinic has been featured in Penrith newspaper, Nepean News. Read full text below.

The most important conversation you’ll ever have: Check-in this World Suicide Prevention Day

With World Suicide Prevention Day this Tuesday 10 September, Penrith psychologists are calling for people to check in, stay connected, and reach out. 

In Australia, 8.6 people die by suicide each day, which is more than double the road toll (ABS, 2022).  For every one death by suicide, on average 135 other people are affected, including  family members, work colleagues, friends, and first responders. 

Clare Calderwood, principal clinical psychologist at Anchor Psychology Clinic in Penrith, says starting a conversation could be the first step to reducing these numbers.

“Despite the broad community impacts of suicide, there is still a lot of stigma associated with suicide, which can make it hard to reach out for help,” says Clare.

“Having a national day of observance is a way to raise awareness, and to encourage people to reach out, as well as honouring people affected by suicide: those who are bereaved, those who have survived a suicide attempt, and the memories of those we’ve lost.”

“We shouldn’t be waiting for one day each year to be having these conversations – it might be the most important conversation you ever have and it needs to be approached with openness, understanding and support.”

The International Association for Suicide Prevention and Suicide Prevention Australia are calling on people to start the conversation: check in, stay connected, and reach out.

Check in: If you are worried about a friend, colleague or family member, the first place to start is asking how they’re going.

“It’s important to remember that this is a conversation,” says Clare. “That means creating space to talk, and then really listening.”

“If you’re worried about what to say, remember that most people mainly want someone to listen to them. You don’t have to fix it.”

Stay connected: “Once you’ve started the conversation, keep checking in over time,” Clare recommends.

“Staying connected is one of the most helpful things we can do to improve mental health.”

Connection might look like meeting up for a cuppa, playing sport together or even sending memes.

Reach out:  If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, help is available. 

“Your GP is a good place to start,” says Clare. “They can refer you to mental health professionals for ongoing support.”  

World Suicide Prevention Day is an international day of reflection where over 60 countries rally to increase awareness of suicide, encourage help seeking, reduce stigma, and increase advocacy for policy change.

Help is available 24/7. If you need immediate support, please call Lifeline (13 11 14) or the Suicide Call Back Service (1300 659 467).