Situational Approach to Suicide Prevention Among Australian Males: The Role of Unemployment

Abstract

This article contends that the prevention of suicide, particularly in Australia, needs to be re-imagined, by expanding a medical/crisis response to take into account social factors that contribute to the incidence of suicide and suicidal ideation. The particular area of unemployment/underemployment provides one such example of the social determinants of suicide, and argues that the nuances of gender and Aboriginality need also to be accounted for in research and program delivery. This analysis has been dubbed the ‘Situational Approach to Suicide Prevention’.

Using an Intersectional Approach to Explore the Lived Mental Health Experiences of Traveller Men Affected by Suicide in Ireland

“…Against a backdrop of a proud tradition of skilled craftsmanship within the Traveller community, unemployment left many Traveller men in this study feeling emasculated and rudderless, and dependent on state support services in which they had little confidence in ever effecting any real change. Unemployment has been reported to have a causal effect on suicide with a stronger relationship for men compared with women ( Guntuku et al, 2021 ; Platt, 2011 ; Qin et al, 2000 ). Traditional expectations about the male provider and breadwinner roles appeared to be intensified among Traveller men in this study, with unemployment being associated with a distinct loss of role and purpose.…”

Voluntary male mentors' lived experience of social engagement with men in their community

“…Nonetheless, over decades, ordinary people, often with good mental health and capable social skills, can identify as lonely even whilst being among others (Fidler, 1976 ; Franklin et al, 2018 ; Perlman & Peplau, 1981 ). Many men experience loneliness which may influence suicidal ideation, which often emerges from changes across the life‐course, particularly when employment changes, sporting participation ceases or relationships break down (Guntuku et al, 2021 ; Lim & Australian Psychological Society, 2018 ; Patulny & Wong, 2013 ). Although all genders experience loneliness, many men are unsure of how to address the condition, despite being able to recognise its presence in both their own and other men's lives (Arbes et al, 2014 ; Feo, 2013 ).…”