You are invited to take part in an online survey for a research study which will investigate whether a community-wide, integrated suicide prevention program, called LifeSpan, can change suicide risk, knowledge, behaviours, and attitudes. LifeSpan is currently being trialled in certain regions in NSW. This survey will be conducted before the LifeSpan program begins, and in 12 and 24 months. If you live in the Illawarra Shoalhaven you are asked to complete this survey because you are located in a trial region or a control region.
The study is being conducted by the Black Dog Institute and is supported by a research grant from the Ramsay Foundation.
Who can participate in the research?
We are seeking people aged 18 years and over to participate in this research.
What would you be asked to do if you agree to participate?
You will be asked to answer questions about your age and other details such as education, and employment status; questions about seeking help for mental health problems, your knowledge and views about suicide and suicide prevention activities; and about your own mental health. You do not have to answer every question. The survey will take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete.
What will be done with the results of the survey?
The survey results will be used by the research team to assess current community knowledge about suicide and help-seeking behaviours, and any changes that may occur due to the intervention.
Benefits
While we intend that this research study furthers knowledge and may improve suicide prevention in the future, it may not be of direct benefit to you.
Risks
The risks of participating in this study are that you may find some of the questions upsetting, particularly the questions concerning suicide. For example, you will be asked about whether you have experienced suicidal feelings, and whether you know anyone who has died by suicide. If you believe that these questions may cause you to become distressed or upset or find that this occurs during your participation in this study, please discontinue the survey. In the event that you experience adverse reactions, please contact a General Practitioner or other health professional, friends, family, or any of the resources provided below. If you don’t have a GP, there are some online services locators to help you find a GP or other services:
There are several 24-hour phone lines available if you need to get help, get a referral, or just want to talk to someone: Suicide Call back Service:1300 659 467. Provides counselling for people at risk of suicide. There is also a possibility to access up to six session of counselling with the same counsellor at times scheduled to suit you. For more information, go to www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au Lifeline: 13-11-14. Provides counselling, professional support and local referrals. Online support such as crisis chat is also available at set times. See www.lifeline.org.au for more info. BeyondBlue: 1300 22 4636. Provides information on depression and related disorders, available treatment and referrals to relevant services. Alternatively, visit www.beyondblue.org.au for more info.
To find out more or to complete the survey go to: http://lifespan.community-illawarrashoalhaven.sgizmo.com/s3/