At the Australian Public Health Conference (APHC), Research Officer Naomi Beard presented critical findings on suicide and self-harm-related ambulance attendances in Queensland, supported by the Margaret Hamilton Traveling Scholarship. Her research, based on the National Addiction and Mental Health Surveillance Unit’s data, reveals that 44% of suicide attempts involved overdoses of alcohol or other drugs, predominantly occurring on Sunday evenings.

The study highlights a pressing concern for younger Queenslanders, who face the highest burden of self-harm incidents. Notably, it points to significant geographic disparities, with regional areas showing higher ambulance call rates, while Very Remote areas prefer self-transport to hospitals.

Naomi Beard’s research shows that Queensland needs better mental health support. As Barack Obama wisely said, “To anyone out there who’s hurting — it’s not a sign of weakness to ask for help. It’s a sign of strength.” Her study, using data from the National Ambulance Surveillance System (NASS), reveals that many suicide attempts involve alcohol or drugs. To tackle this, we need mental health help that’s tailored to those at risk. Public health should make services easier to access and boost community awareness to cut down on self-harm and suicide attempts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson noted, “When it is darkest, we can see the stars,” reminding us of the hope and resilience needed in these efforts.

Source: Turning Point