Mental health can impact people in a variety of ways, often affecting our thinking patterns, the way we feel, and how we behave and respond. As mental health can often be stigmatised in society, it can be difficult for people to open up and talk about the issues they are experiencing, which can lead to further feelings of hopelessness. Research suggests that when people feel a sense of hopelessness, they are more likely to experience thoughts of suicide.
At PsychMed, we offer a Structured Intervention Program for Suicide Attempters – SIPS for short. SIPS is a fee-free government funded program, which works alongside receiving support from an ongoing clinician such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or social worker. We know that individuals with a history of suicide attempts are at an increased risk of completing suicide than the general population, with recent research identifying a past suicide attempt as the number one risk factor for future attempts and completions. The SIPS program offers a service for these individuals, by assisting them to process past attempts whilst also preventing future suicide attempts.
We are pleased to announce that our SIPS has been awarded full accreditation against the Suicide Prevention Australia Standards, first edition.
We know that following a suicide attempt or crisis, people may feel shame and stigma. They may push suicidal thoughts to the backs of their mind, and try to forget the memories associated with a suicide attempt. When we try to avoid thoughts and memories, they often return stronger with time, and can leave many people feeling overwhelmed. The SIPS program allows people to safely talk about and process their experiences through a narrative-exposure treatment program over 4–5 sessions. With the support of a SIPS clinician, clients piece together the chain of events that led up to their attempt, and learn supportive coping strategies for the future through a collaborative Safety Plan and evidence based Hope and Safety Card.
At PsychMed, we understand that mental health can fluctuate throughout life, depending on our current coping skills, support network, and psychosocial stressors. This is why upon completion of the SIPS program, your clinician will follow-up with you every 3–6 months for 2 years to check-in with how you are progressing.
If you are interested in the SIPS program, or would like more information on the program, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly support team on 8232 2424. If you need immediate support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
This program is funded by the Adelaide Primary Health Network – an Australian Government Initiative.
