Improving access to vital services
Research shows that at least 1 in 2 regional Queenslanders will experience a mental illness at some point in their lives...tragically for some, their lives end in suicide.
While the prevalence of mental illness in regional, rural and remote areas is consistent with rates in major cities, access to services remains limited.
Rates of self-harm and suicide increase with remoteness.
Suicide Prevention Queensland works with communities to leverage existing services and develop new programs for those that need it the most.
Regional and remote areas of Queensland are considered a ‘priority population’ for suicide prevention. Those that live in rural and remote parts of Queensland are almost twice as likely to die by suicide compared to those in major cities.
Our research
Feedback from regional Queensland communities highlights the urgent need for improved access to vital mental health services*:
In the last 12 months, do feel you or someone you know would have benefitted from mental health or suicide prevention support?
- 92% yes
If you answered yes to the above, and did not receive support, what stopped you from receiving support?
- lack of suitable or free services
- lack of free services
- distance / remoteness
- privacy/stigma
- long wait lists
Contributing factors
There are many risk factors that influence suicide for people living in regional and remote settings, including:
- loneliness/isolation
- financial stress – due to natural disasters or climate change
- intergenerational trauma (particularly for First Nations people)
- unemployment
- limited access to support services, fewer GP visits for mental health issues
- lower help seeking behaviours due to stigma
At Suicide Prevention Queensland, we don’t want people to have to wait to seek help in a crisis, as many never do, so we will develop more tailored programs that focus on early distress, reducing potential risk factors.
Establishing dedicated facilities
Do you think there is a need for a purpose-built community mental health and suicide prevention facility in your region?
- 87% yes
Leveraging selectability’s regional expansion framework; which has seen the establishment of a number of dedicated, fit-for-purpose facilities across its diverse footprint; Suicide Prevention Queensland will work with communities to establish suitable programs to address suicide risk factors.
Mental Health Hubs
selectability’s Mental Health Hubs offer programs tailored to the needs of individuals. These programs help reduce the risk factors that contribute to suicide.
The open door policy and welcoming presence of staff gives locals a safe space that allows the opportunity to build relationships and connect to support services.
BikeSheds
Overcoming loneliness was a key driving factor behind the development of selectabilty’s BikeShed program. The community-based program creates a welcoming, trusting space for regional Queenslanders to connect with their community.
BikeSheds are loosely based on the Men’s Shed concept, and provide an inclusive space for locals to engage with other members, become more active, work on projects and improve their mental wellbeing.