If you, or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 000, visit your nearest hospital emergency or contact any of the crisis support services.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ social and emotional wellbeing includes connections to culture; Country; spirit, spirituality and ancestors; mind and emotions; body; family and kinship; and community. When these connections are strong, social and emotional wellbeing thrives.
When media report on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, they need to be considerate of the differences in how suicide and social and emotional wellbeing within First Nations communities are both perceived and experienced.
Being aware of these differences allows for safer and more inclusive engagement.
The resources on this page have been developed in collaboration with the Centre of Best Practice in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention to support safe and respectful public communication about First Nations suicide.
For media reporting on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander suicide
This quick reference guide is designed to support safe and respectful communication about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander suicide.
Advice includes: Seeking cultural guidance from within community, respecting cultural protocols following a suicide, asking and understanding what stories community want told, seeking opportunities to proactively tell prevention-focused stories, building trust.
For First Nations people sharing their stories
This quick reference guide outlines why some people may choose to share their stories, examples of what truth-telling can look like, advice around things to consider prior to sharing your story, and how to prepare for an interview.
Advice includes: Choosing the right time and way to tell your story, understanding the intentions and processes of media, being clear about your preferences and the cultural protocols involved, practicing sharing your story, and self-care.
