Understanding suicide
Suicide affects many families, workplaces, services, schools and communities.
Suicide arises from a complex interaction between many vulnerabilities, risk factors and triggers in a person’s life. However, suicide can also be influenced by social and economic circumstances and differences between cultures and individuals’ experiences in society.
It is not easy to understand what compels a person to take their own life, especially for those who have never experienced such overwhelming feelings. Accurate information about suicide is important in order to identify those who may need more support and to debunk some common myths about suicide.
In this section
Myth busting
To increase understanding about suicide and to better support those affected by suicide, we need to challenge commonly held myths and misconceptions.
Language and suicide
People who are vulnerable to suicide, or bereaved by suicide, can be particularly impacted by language. Learn more about preferred language and talking about suicide.
Key facts
Data and trends relating to suicide in Australia can change over time. It is important to have accurate and up-to-date information about suicide to inform planning, policy and practice.