Start the Chat: Changing the Narrative on Suicide Prevention

More than 7 million Australians are close to someone who has died by suicide or attempted suicide. This is not just a number. Each one represents a life touched, and a ripple felt across families and communities.

September 10 marked World Suicide Prevention Day. This year's theme, 'Changing the Narrative', encourages us to challenge stigma, broaden understanding and create space for compassionate conversations about suicide. It reminds us that suicide is complex but there is always something we can do. Sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is simply Start the Chat.

Adelaide PHN has partnered with FIVEAA, Nova919 and Black Dog Institute for its Start the Chat campaign, promoting a FREE one-hour online training which equips anyone who wants to start the chat with family, friends or colleagues with the skills and confidence to have safe, supportive conversations about suicide.

The Recognise and Respond training, developed by Black Dog Institute, is designed for the broader community and equips people with the skills and confidence needed to start the conversation with someone who may be at risk of suicide.

On World Suicide Prevention Day, FIVEAA shared real stories of hope and healing – told by people with lived and living experience of suicide – to showcase that connection, support and understanding can make a life-saving difference.

"We're aiming to shift how our communities understand suicide and to build confidence in having meaningful and compassionate conversations about suicide," said Dani Bacskai, Regional Suicide Prevention Lead at Adelaide PHN.

"This campaign is about showcasing that you don't need to be a professional to make a difference. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is offer your presence, your attention and a safe space to talk."

The campaign website, StartTheChat.com.au features several short, powerful stories from South Australians who have experienced suicidal distress. These stories highlight what helped, what healing looks like, and how others can show up in meaningful ways. There is also a direct link to the online training and help lines to support services and local initiatives.

"We're especially focused on showcasing the role of connection and how friends, family, peers and community have supported someone in distress, and the difference that support has made," said Dani.

"It's about recognising the signs, responding with care, and knowing that creating a space for someone to feel heard, supported and connected can have a big impact."

As part of the campaign process, Adelaide PHN engaged an Advisory Group and lived experience advocates, whose lived experience, cultural knowledge and professional expertise have shaped the campaign's direction ensuring it reflects the voices of our communities. Their guidance and contributions have been invaluable.

Head to StartTheChat.com.au to explore the stories, share them with others, take the free one-hour online training and reflect on how you can be part of changing the narrative.

Because suicide prevention is everyone's business - let's start the chat and make a difference.