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Luke J, Bartlett C, March S, McIlveen P. A systematic review of effective local, community or peer-delivered interventions to improve well-being and employment in regional, rural and remote areas of Australia. Aust J Rural Health 2024; 32:433-454. [PMID: 38544339 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.13113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To systematically review evaluated local, community or peer-delivered well-being and employment interventions delivered within regional, rural and remote Australia. DESIGN Searches within nine databases retrieved peer-reviewed and grey literature from an initial pool of 3186 papers published between 2012 and 2022. PRISMA guidelines were adhered to, and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was used to assess the quality of the well-being or employment (or both) articles. FINDINGS A total of 19 items met the inclusion criteria, which included two quantitative, 12 qualitative and five mixed-methods evaluations. Intervention cohorts included Indigenous Australians, youth, older people, workers and the general community. The average methodological rating was 83%. The overall level of evidence for the interventions was low due to mostly descriptive studies. DISCUSSION Interventions that appeared effective in improving well-being tended to focus on addressing social connectedness and self-determination. Unexpected employment outcomes were evident across many of the studies, which highlighted the reciprocity between well-being and employment. CONCLUSION This review highlights promising interventions for improving well-being by focusing on social connectedness and self-determination. Further empirical evidence is encouraged to explore the reciprocal relationship between well-being and employment, emphasising the significance of social connectedness and self-determination in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Luke
- Future Drought Fund Hub (Research), University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Queensland, Australia
- School of Education, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Cristy Bartlett
- School of Education, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
- Support for Learning, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sonja March
- Centre for Health Research and School of Psychology and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Queensland, Australia
- Manna Institute, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Peter McIlveen
- School of Education, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
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Bransgrove NJ, Porter JE, Prokopiv V, Wildblood R, Prezioso M, Bradley V, Look B. Local Men Local Communities: A rural placed-based approach to increase men's engagement with mental health training and events. Health Promot J Austr 2024. [PMID: 38566273 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15-49 (Department of Health and Aged Care Suicide in Australia, https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/mental-health-and-suicide-prevention/suicide-in-australia, 2021). With the loss of one community member impacting the individual's family, friends, and wider community. The aim of the article is to showcase a process evaluation of a place-based approach to suicide prevention, exploring the elements of mental health training and events that can be tailored to increase engagement with the men living in a rural Local Government Area in Gippsland, Victoria, Australia. METHODS Participation records and promotional material for the Local Men Local Communities project was utilised to explore similarities and differences between the training and events offered. RESULTS Results indicated that men living in rural areas engaged best with events that included a social element such as food or an activity, highlighting that men may find it easier to talk and connect when they have something to do. CONCLUSION Mental health training and events need to be tailored to meet the needs of the target population. Key details to consider include location, time, promotional material, content, and inclusion of a social element. SO WHAT?: When rural men were provided ownership of their conversations, they were more likely to have them. This challenges the stereotype that men do not talk and creates the opportunity for social connection within the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie J Bransgrove
- Collaborative Evaluation & Research Group (CERG), Federation University, Churchill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joanne E Porter
- Collaborative Evaluation & Research Group (CERG), Federation University, Churchill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Valerie Prokopiv
- Collaborative Evaluation & Research Group (CERG), Federation University, Churchill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robyn Wildblood
- Collaborative Evaluation & Research Group (CERG), Federation University, Churchill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michelle Prezioso
- Collaborative Evaluation & Research Group (CERG), Federation University, Churchill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vicki Bradley
- Community Strengthening, South Gippsland Shire Council, Leongatha, Victoria, Australia
| | - Barbara Look
- Community Strengthening, South Gippsland Shire Council, Leongatha, Victoria, Australia
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Shilubane HN, Ruiter RAC, Khoza LB, van den Borne BHW. Perspective on the Prevention of Suicide among School Learners by School Management. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20105856. [PMID: 37239582 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20105856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents in South Africa have higher suicide rates than older people. A suicide or unexpected death of a fellow student can result in increased copycat behavior. Previous studies have placed emphasis on the significance of school involvement in the prevention of suicide. The study sought to explore the perspective on the prevention of suicide among school learners by school management. A qualitative phenomenological design was applied. The study used purposive sampling to select six high schools. In-depth interviews were conducted with six focus group discussions comprising fifty school management. A semi-structured interview guide guided the interviews. Data were analyzed using a general inductive approach. Findings revealed that school management should be supported through workshops to increase their skills in handling stressful situations at school. Support for learners through audio-visuals, professional counseling, and awareness campaigns also emerged. Parents-school partnership was said to be effective in preventing suicide among learners as both parties will be free to discuss the problems faced by the learner. In conclusion, empowering school management in the prevention of suicide is critical for Limpopo learners. Awareness campaigns conducted by suicide survivors where they can share their testimonies is necessary. School-based professional counseling services should be established to benefit all learners, particularly those experiencing financial challenges. Pamphlets in local languages should be developed for students to convey information about suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilda N Shilubane
- Department of Advanced Nursing Science, University of Venda, Private Bag X, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
| | - Robert A C Ruiter
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 6, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Lunic B Khoza
- Department of Health Studies, University of South Africa, Pretoria 0003, South Africa
| | - Bart H W van den Borne
- Department of Health Promotion, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 6, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands
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McGuffog R, Bryant J, Booth K, Collis F, Brown A, Hughes JT, Chamberlain C, McGhie A, Hobden B, Kennedy M. Exploring the Reported Strengths and Limitations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Research: A Narrative Review of Intervention Studies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3993. [PMID: 36901001 PMCID: PMC10001772 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20053993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
High quality intervention research is needed to inform evidence-based practice and policy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. We searched for studies published from 2008-2020 in the PubMed database. A narrative review of intervention literature was conducted, where we identified researcher reported strengths and limitations of their research practice. A total of 240 studies met inclusion criteria which were categorised as evaluations, trials, pilot interventions or implementation studies. Reported strengths included community engagement and partnerships; sample qualities; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander involvement in research; culturally appropriate and safe research practice; capacity building efforts; providing resources or reducing costs for services and communities; understanding local culture and context; and appropriate timelines for completion. Reported limitations included difficulties achieving the target sample size; inadequate time; insufficient funding and resources; limited capacity of health workers and services; and inadequate community involvement and communication issues. This review highlights that community consultation and leadership coupled with appropriate time and funding, enables Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health intervention research to be conducted. These factors can enable effective intervention research, and consequently can help improve health and wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romany McGuffog
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Jamie Bryant
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Kade Booth
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Felicity Collis
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Alex Brown
- Indigenous Genomics, Australia National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jaquelyne T. Hughes
- Rural and Remote Health, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Darwin, NT 0810, Australia
| | - Catherine Chamberlain
- Centre for Health Equity, School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Judith Lumley Centre, School of Nursing and Midwifery, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Alexandra McGhie
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Breanne Hobden
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Health Behaviour Research Collaborative, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Michelle Kennedy
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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Sjoblom E, Ghidei W, Leslie M, James A, Bartel R, Campbell S, Montesanti S. Centering Indigenous knowledge in suicide prevention: a critical scoping review. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2377. [PMID: 36536345 PMCID: PMC9761945 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14580-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indigenous peoples of Canada, United States, Australia, and New Zealand experience disproportionately high rates of suicide as a result of the collective and shared trauma experienced with colonization and ongoing marginalization. Dominant, Western approaches to suicide prevention-typically involving individual-level efforts for behavioural change via mental health professional intervention-by themselves have largely failed at addressing suicide in Indigenous populations, possibly due to cultural misalignment with Indigenous paradigms. Consequently, many Indigenous communities, organizations and governments have been undertaking more cultural and community-based approaches to suicide prevention. To provide a foundation for future research and inform prevention efforts in this context, this critical scoping review summarizes how Indigenous approaches have been integrated in suicide prevention initiatives targeting Indigenous populations. METHODS A systematic search guided by a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach was conducted in twelve electronic bibliographic databases for academic literature and six databases for grey literature to identify relevant articles. the reference lists of articles that were selected via the search strategy were hand-searched in order to include any further articles that may have been missed. Articles were screened and assessed for eligibility. From eligible articles, data including authors, year of publication, type of publication, objectives of the study, country, target population, type of suicide prevention strategy, description of suicide prevention strategy, and main outcomes of the study were extracted. A thematic analysis approach guided by Métis knowledge and practices was also applied to synthesize and summarize the findings. RESULTS Fifty-six academic articles and 16 articles from the grey literature were examined. Four overarching and intersecting thematic areas emerged out of analysis of the academic and grey literature: (1) engaging culture and strengthening connectedness; (2) integrating Indigenous knowledge; (3) Indigenous self-determination; and (4) employing decolonial approaches. CONCLUSIONS Findings demonstrate how centering Indigenous knowledge and approaches within suicide prevention positively contribute to suicide-related outcomes. Initiatives built upon comprehensive community engagement processes and which incorporate Indigenous culture, knowledge, and decolonizing methods have been shown to have substantial impact on suicide-related outcomes at the individual- and community-level. Indigenous approaches to suicide prevention are diverse, drawing on local culture, knowledge, need and priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erynne Sjoblom
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 3-300 Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 - 87 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Winta Ghidei
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 3-300 Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 - 87 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Marya Leslie
- Métis Nation of Alberta, #100 Delia Gray Building, 11738 Kingsway Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB, T5G 0X5, Canada
| | - Ashton James
- Métis Nation of Alberta, #100 Delia Gray Building, 11738 Kingsway Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB, T5G 0X5, Canada
| | - Reagan Bartel
- Métis Nation of Alberta, #100 Delia Gray Building, 11738 Kingsway Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB, T5G 0X5, Canada
| | - Sandra Campbell
- Librarian, Health Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R7, Canada
| | - Stephanie Montesanti
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 3-300 Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 - 87 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada.
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 3-266 Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 - 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada.
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A Scoping Review of Community-Based Adult Suicide Prevention Initiatives in Rural and Regional Australia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127007. [PMID: 35742256 PMCID: PMC9223193 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The need for continued research into suicide prevention strategies is undeniable, with high global statistics demonstrating the urgency of this public health issue. In Australia, approximately 3000 people end their lives each year, with those living in rural and regional areas identified as having a higher risk of dying by suicide. Due to decreased access and support services in these areas, community-based suicide prevention initiatives provide opportunities to educate and support local communities. A scoping review was conducted to explore the literature pertaining to such programs in rural and/or regional communities in Australia. This review follows the five-stage Arksey and O’Malley (2005) framework and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. Nine databases were searched, from which studies were considered eligible if suicide prevention programs were community-based and catered for adults (aged ≥ 18 years) in rural or regional Australia. Ten papers that met our inclusion criteria were included in this review, showcasing a variety of interventions such as workshops, a digital intervention, art therapy, and initiatives to increase education and reduce stigma around suicide. Program engagement strategies included the importance of providing culturally appropriate services, the inclusion of lived experience mentoring, and tailoring the suicide prevention program to reach its targeted audience. Overall, there is a dearth of literature surrounding community-based suicide prevention initiatives for adults in rural and regional Australia. Further evaluation of community-based projects is required to ensure quality improvement and tailored suicide prevention initiatives for rural and regional Australians.
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Handley TE, Davies K, Booth A, Dalton H, Perkins D. Lessons from the development and delivery of a rural suicide prevention program. Aust J Rural Health 2021; 29:993-998. [PMID: 34757644 PMCID: PMC9299224 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Suicide prevention remains a priority in rural and remote Australia, where suicide rates continue to be higher than those in urban communities. This commentary describes the Good SPACE suicide prevention program, and the lessons learned from delivering this program over a 14-year period. CONTEXT The Good SPACE program has been operating in rural New South Wales since 2007. The program focuses on educating rural community members to recognise the signs of suicide vulnerability, and how to take appropriate action if they encounter someone considering suicide. APPROACH Communities are selected to receive Good SPACE training in consultation with key stakeholder organisations, or by request from communities. Across the life of the program, key challenges in its administration have included short-term funding arrangements and staff turnover. Strengths have included the ability to adapt content to meet the needs of rural communities (eg from an initial focus on helping farmers during periods of drought, to a broader focus on all rural residents and a wider range of adversities). As the program moves forward, emphasis will be placed on harder-to-reach populations, including males and those with lower mental health literacy. CONCLUSION The Good SPACE program has ongoing funding to adapt its content and continue administration through the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (https://www.ramhp.com.au/). The lessons learned throughout the life of the program might be of use to other organisations aiming to provide community-based education programs in rural and remote communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonelle E Handley
- Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Kate Davies
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Angela Booth
- Auchmuty Library, Academic Division, University of Newcastle, Orange, NSW, Australia
| | - Hazel Dalton
- Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - David Perkins
- Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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