Understanding self-harm and suicidal behaviours

In this episode, GP Bianca Forrester and Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist A/Prof Sandra Radovini tackle the tricky topic of self-harming and suicidal behaviours. Sandra describes the key elements of assessment and management for self-harming behaviours themselves and the presence of self-harm as a red flag for suicidal behaviours. They discuss the importance of formal training and support when working with young people who might be experiencing these behaviours. Sandra describes how we might better understand what we can work with and when we need to refer. Sandra also reinforces the the importance of working with supports. Patient information about Self Harm https://headtohealth.gov.au/mental-health-difficulties/self-harm Safety Planning resources For an explanation of safety planning https://au.reachout.com/articles/how-to-make-a-safety-plan or directly link to the app: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/beyondnow-suicide-safety-planning/getting-started Training and education resources Asist training http://www.livingworks.com.au Orygen training https://www.orygen.org.au/Training/Training-areas/Self-harm-and-suicide-prevention Headspace training for GPs https://headspace.org.au/health-professionals/gps-and-general-practice-at-headspace/ Phone Counselling and Support Where people are in crisis and need to talk to someone about their distress or trauma, there are a range of organisations listed below that can assist them. beyondblue www.beyondblue.org.au 1300 22 4636 beyondblue is a national organisation that has a range of information and resources associated with depression and anxiety. Useful resources and further information about beyondblue programmes are available on its website at www.beyondblue.org.au or by contacting its Support Service on 1300 22 4636 (toll free). The Support Service runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All calls are one-on-one with a trained mental health professional, and completely confidential. Lifeline Australia www.lifeline.org.au 13 11 14 Lifeline Australia provides a free, confidential and anonymous, 24-hour telephone counselling service for adults needing emotional support. Lifeline Australia also has a range of information and resources available from their website, about providing care in times of crisis. Kids Help Line www.kidshelp.com.au 1800 55 1800 A number of children and youth may also need emotional. Kids Help Line is a free and confidential, telephone counselling service for 5 to 25 year olds in Australia. Black Dog Institute www.mycompass.org.au The Black Dog Institute provides a 24 hour