Resource manual to help reduce youth suicide rate

14/6/94

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death amongst young people.

In 1992, young people aged 20-24 had the highest rate of suicide of any age group apart from those over the age of 75.

Early identification, risk assessment and referral are important factors in efforts to improve and strengthen existing services.

Today, Health Minister Peter Foss launched a resource manual to help reduce the incidence of youth suicide in Western Australia.

The manual - 'Making a Difference' - and produced by Youth Link (formerly Troubled Youth Support Service) was specifically for youth agency staff who worked on a daily basis with troubled young people.

It provides practical advice on identifying young people at risk of committing suicide and supporting them through crisis situations.

"Youth suicide is a tragic waste of life and potential," Mr Foss said.

"Sadly, the health system cannot offer a simple cure.

"The causes of suicide span many aspects of society and must be addressed on several fronts, from the community as a whole, to the family unit in particular, if any long-term change is to be effected.

"In the meantime, we must identify those young people at risk and support them through their difficulties.

"This manual provides very practical advice to those dealing daily with young people in crisis."

The manual, produced in collaboration with youth workers, provides information on:

·       suicide as a community issue;

·       working with young people in crisis;

·       assessing suicidal risk;

·       developing case management strategies; and 

·       working with young people of an Aboriginal or non-English speaking background.

Mr Foss said the manual was an excellent example of the results that could be achieved when Government and non-Government agencies worked collaboratively towards a mutual objective.

The manual was funded by Youth Link for distribution in metropolitan areas.

Additional funding has recently been made available recently by the Youth Suicide Advisory Committee, to produce further copies for distribution to rural areas.

Youth Link is jointly funded by the State and Commonwealth Governments.

Media contact:  Jeanne Klener (09) 222 9595 or (09) 325 8665

For further information, please contact Youth Link co-ordinator, Denise Follett (09) 388 2022