Researcher behind #YouCanTalk campaign research acknowledged in national awards

The LiFE Awards attracts nominations from a diversity of sectors nationally ranging from business, industry, media, community, government, youth, research and medicine.

The event which is hosted by Suicide Prevention Australia annually as part of NSPC celebrate the commitment and energy of the nominees and their vital contribution to the reduction of suicide within communities.

A particular highlight was the delivery of the LiFE Award winner for emerging/early career researcher career research category to Dr Angela Nicholas who is completing her PhD on the research which informed the national #YouCanTalk campaign.

According to Dr Angela Nicholas, she is delighted to have played a role in contributing to the evidence-base behind this collaborative national campaign.

“I feel privileged that my research can help with keeping people safe,” Dr Nicholas said.

“It’s applicable to everyone, most people will know someone who at some point is thinking about suicide.”

Commissioned by Beyond Blue, and completed by The University of Melbourne, the research investigated community attitudes and misconceptions about suicide.

Over 3,000 participants were involved in the research, which found that everyday Australians want to help family and friends at risk of suicide, but are unsure how to identify and respond to the warning signs.

The research found that 50 percent of respondents believed that you need to be a skilled professional to assist someone at risk of suicide.

While 30 percent of people also thought that discussing suicide could encourage a person to consider planning suicide.

40 percent of participants indicated they felt suicide can occur without warning, with 30 percent thinking that most people at risk of suicide show no sign.

The research provided vital new information about general public perceptions of suicide and their ability or willingness to respond to suicide risk.

The findings from this important research will be used to inform future public communication and policy development across the sector to reduce suicide.

To find out more about the #YouCanTalk campaign visit: www.lifeinmindaustralia.com.au/YouCanTalk