Photo: Indigenous suicide rates 2001-12
A major report evaluating the effectiveness of current suicide prevention programs has found mainstream programs are failing – as suicide rates in remote communities reach record levels.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Evaluation Project, co-chaired by professor Pat Dudgeon and former social justice commissioner Tom Calma, is calling for the immediate development of a national Indigenous-run prevention plan.
The report – which has been given to the Prime Minister – also recommended that Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services should be positioned as the primary providers of mental health care to Indigenous people.
Public Health Medical Advisor for Cape York’s Apunipima health council, Mark Wenitong, says community controlled services are best placed to cater for community mental health.
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