Our work in suicide prevention

Suicide is a major public health issue that kills more than 3,000 Australians in a typical year. On average, approximately 65,000 Australians attempt suicide every year and nine die by suicide every day, three-quarters of whom are male.

In 2019, 3,318 people took their own lives; roughly double the national road toll. It is the leading cause of death for people aged between 15 and 49. Those at greatest risk of suicide are people who have previously attempted to take their own lives – international research suggests 15 to 25 per cent of those who attempt suicide once will do so again.

The cost of all this is huge, yet suicide is largely preventable.

Providing evidence-based care and resources to people and their loved ones after a suicide attempt is an essential part of reducing suicide rates.

Beyond Blue is committed to breaking through the social barriers blocking open and safe discussion of suicide and suicide prevention. Our role in advising, informing, and promoting hope for those touched by suicide, or depression or anxiety, and reducing the discrimination and stigma surrounding these issues, is inextricably linked with suicide prevention.

Find out more about our work

Find out more about our work in suicide prevention

Resources

Beyond Blue offers a free catalogue of resources on depression, anxiety and suicide prevention for people, partners, family, friends and health professionals who work in mental health.

The Way Back information resources

Beyond Blue has launched a set of practical resources for people recovering from a suicide attempt and their families. The resources feature real-life experiences of people who have attempted suicide or supported loved ones in their recovery.

Suicide prevention: Knowing the signs

    Sometimes people say or do things that may make you think they're having suicidal thoughts. 

    Beyond Now suicide safety planning app

    The Beyond Now suicide safety planning app helps you stay safe if you're experiencing suicidal thoughts, distress or crisis. It is free and allows you to create your safety plan and carry it with you to access anywhere, anytime. 

    Our research relating to suicide

    Research projects

    Beyond Blue funds a variety of research which contributes to the understanding and knowledge of suicide and regularly evaluates its suicide prevention projects.

    More information on suicide

    Beyond Blue works to equip everyone with the knowledge and skills to maintain their own good mental health and wellbeing, and recognise warning signs in people close to them, in order to prevent the development of a mental health issue.

    Read more information, advice and personal stories of people's experiences with suicide, depression and anxiety.

    Find out more