New mental health programs to support vulnerable youth at risk of suicide

Flinders University 2020

Researchers: PROFESSOR TRACEY WADE, LAURA EDNEY, NATASHA WOOD AND SUSAN NUM

Breakthrough and the James and Diana Ramsay Foundation jointly funded a multi-year research project for a group therapy program aimed at young people who have engaged in self-harm and suicidality, focused on psychological therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).

The parent and young person DBT 24-week group therapy program focuses on helping young people who experience difficulties regulating their emotions, with support from their parent or carer.

This program aims to increase skills in mindfulness, improve tolerance of difficult situations and emotional pain, focus on mood management and strengthening family and other relationships.

Of those who commence the parent/child DBT group, 75% fully completed the 6-month DBT program.

The DBT program has been so successful that SA Health has since included it as part of its mainstream youth mental health services, meaning it is free to access and does not have waitlists. Additionally, the senior clinician position, which oversees the program, is now funded by SA Health and a permanent position is expected to be appointed in the coming months.

Acknowledgement of Country

Breakthrough acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first inhabitants of this nation and the traditional custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work. We recognise all Australian communities who, through their lived experience, help to guide the research funded by Breakthrough.

Acknowledgement of Lived Experience

Breakthrough acknowledges those with lived experiences of mental illness. Every person’s story is uniquely theirs with their own challenges and triumphs, hopes and dreams; but together, we all share the same desire to live a life of connection, belonging and freedom. We are grateful to those who are willing to share their stories, and for the opportunities to listen.