Suicide research site in Bunbury

Bunbury has been chosen as a research site for men’s suicide intervention by the Black Dog Institute, a world leader in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mood disorders such as depression.

For two days, five men who have attempted suicide and seven of their family members or friends will be confidentially interviewed to establish what can be done to prevent male suicide attempts.

Bunbury therapist Melody Birrell is helping the institute with the study by finding possible participants.

Mrs Birrell said it was the first time a national organisation such as the Black Dog Institute had concentrated on a specific country region.

“It will help understand what goes on with men at the time when they make an attempt and what support and services as well as family support they might need in their life, ” she said.

“I think the community is ready for a change and is responsive to helping out with suicide prevention and limit the number of suicides in our region.

“The aim of the research is to discover what factors contribute to or interrupt suicidal behaviours and factors which contribute to people taking action to prevent someone from taking their life.”

Research officer Dr Michael Player said it was a good opportunity to test a representative sample of Australia.