Social Determinants of Suicide: Evidence and impact - Expert Insights for Health Professionals

In Australia, suicide rates have continued to rise over the last decade. Now, COVID-19 and the recent bushfire season has led to unexpected social and economic disruption and devastating impacts on the psychological health of Australians. Research and lived experience evidence tell us that suicidal behaviours are complex and can be shaped by the social, economic, and physical environments in which we live – otherwise known as social determinants. But what does this mean for clinicians? What are the impacts of experiencing unemployment, financial stress, isolation, or discrimination on patients, their families, and their communities? And what can governments do to mitigate these risks? Tune in to our special Mental Health Month edition of Expert Insights as we explore the social determinants of suicide, cultural factors at play and how policy can influence outcomes. Panel members: Leilani Darwin: Head of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Lived Experience Centre at the Black Dog Institute Dr Fiona Shand: Associate Professor at the Black Dog Institute and the NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Suicide Prevention Dr Katherine Boydell: Professor of Mental Health at the Black Dog Institute Dunkan Yip: Senior Policy Advisor at the Black Dog Institute Facilitated by: Dr Carol Newall, Black Dog Institute GP Consultant Recording and sound production: Nathan Bell Voiceover: Cameron Banks, Black Dog Institute