In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September and R U OK? Day on 11 September, COORDINARE - South Eastern NSW, in partnership with three local Suicide Prevention Collaboratives*, is today launching free access to Recognise and Respond suicide awareness training. 

Developed by the Black Dog Institute (BDI), the online course equips learners with the tools and confidence to have a key conversation and respond to a friend, family member or colleague who may have suicidal thoughts.  

With funding from NSW Government, COORDINARE is providing people living and working in South Eastern NSW with access to Recognise and Respond suicide awareness training.  

The one-hour self-paced online course teaches participants to how to recognise changes in someone’s behaviour, how to engage in a conversation with that person and where to find further support. Using interactive content and videos, the program emphasises that anyone can engage in meaningful conversations about suicide, regardless of their professional background.  

Jo Riley, Social Impact and Engagement Manager at COORDINARE - South Eastern NSW PHN, said, “With World Suicide Prevention Day and R U OK? Day occurring this week, it’s a key time for focused conversations across communities about the role we all play in suicide prevention.”  

“We know many people find it difficult to talk about suicide and while they want to do more to support others, they are uncertain how to help or are worried they may cause more distress. Undertaking this suicide awareness training can help build the confidence needed to reach in, start a conversation with someone you’re worried about, and support them to seek help,” said Ms Riley.   

In Australia, suicide remains the leading cause of death among people aged 15–44. Every year, more than 3,000 Australians die by suicide, and over 55,000 make a suicide attempt. These are not just numbers, they are families, friends, colleagues and community members. 

Ms Riley added, “COORDINARE is proud to partner with local Suicide Prevention Collaboratives and Networks to offer this training to those living and working in South Eastern NSW. Suicide is a complex phenomenon, and every individual situation is unique. Collaborating ensures we embed suicide awareness within a broader suite of strategies to improve access to compassionate supports and to reduce the prevalence and impact of key drivers of suicide.”    

“We all have a role to play in suicide prevention including looking after ourselves and supporting each other, but it is only by working together that we can prevent suicide. Take some time out this week to sign up for Recognise and Respond training so you feel better equipped to provide support and have potentially lifesaving conversations.” 

Recognise and Respond was created in response to the need for a program tailored to the Australian community. Its design was informed by extensive consultations with individuals who have experienced suicidal distress, ensuring the training is relevant, engaging and accessible. The scenario-based approach allows users to choose situations that reflect their own experiences.  

A research trial demonstrated the program increased confidence, skills, and positive attitudes towards suicide prevention among participants.  

Register now for Recognise and Respond suicide prevention training via LearnToReachIn.info. 

*Illawarra Shoalhaven Suicide Prevention Collaborative, Bega Eurobodalla Suicide Prevention Collaborative and the Goulburn and Region Suicide Prevention Network have partnered with COORDINARE to promote free suicide prevention training. Suicide Prevention Collaboratives and Networks are made up of community members and representatives from local organisations and entities including government, non-government, health, education, social services and community bodies. 

Refer to mindframe.org.au for support and advice on reporting of suicide-related stories.