top of page

Indigenous Suicide Prevention

TLS Indigenous Consultancy is dedicated to promoting holistic and culturally responsive approaches to suicide prevention, intervention and postvention for Indigenous communities. Guided by Indigenous knowing, being and doing along with community voices and evidence-based practices, we aim to empower individuals and communities with the tools and resources to navigate this critical journey. 

Whether you're an individulal, community group or organisation, there are many ways to join us in this vital work. You can start by: 

Together we can create a future where every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person feels safe, support and valued.  

FB_IMG_1617148758484

FB_IMG_1617148758484

20221116_165905

20221116_165905

FB_IMG_1681265430361

FB_IMG_1681265430361

IMG_1383

IMG_1383

20200909_122911

20200909_122911

20230321_135950

20230321_135950

1698633245949

1698633245949

Aventedge Indigenous Conference Brisbane Mar 23-39

Aventedge Indigenous Conference Brisbane Mar 23-39

image_20230827_110343a125db93-aa2e-4acb-a146-d0cf78b2b759

image_20230827_110343a125db93-aa2e-4acb-a146-d0cf78b2b759

Prevention: safeYARN

safeYARN is a suicide prevention program, designed to foster meaningful connections and open dialogues within Indigenous communities. This culturally grounded training emphasises:

  • Story-telling and Connection: using yarning in a safe space for participants to share experiences, build trust and create a supportive network. 

  • Cultural Safety: tailored content respects local customs, values and traditions, making it relevant to the unique needs of each community. 

  • Early Identification: equipping participants with practical skills to recognise warning signs and provide compassionate support to individuals with thoughts of suicide. 

Through safeYARN, we aim to build resilient communities where everyone feels connected, valued and supported. ​

2

Intervention: I-ASIST 

I-ASIST (Indigenous Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) is a life-saving intervention program developed top equip community members and service providers with the skills to respond effectively to individuals at risk of suicide. Key features include:

  • Cultural Responsiveness: incorporation Indigenous perspectives, ensuring the training aligns with cultural protocols and community needs.

  • Practical Skills Development: participants learn a structured approach to identify risk, create a safety plan and connect individuals to ongoing support. 

  • Inclusivity and Collaboration: delivered by Indigenous Trainers with opportunities for non-Indigenous allies to participate in a supportive role. 

I-ASIST empowers participants to intervene confidently, ensuring no one faces their challenges alone. ​

3

Postvention: Rapid Response Plans

Our Rapid Response Plans provide a structured and culturally informed approach to supporting communities in the aftermath of a suicide. These plans focus on:

  • Immediate Support: mobilising trained community members to provide care and comfort during critical times.

  • Capacity Building: equipping communities with tools to develop localised postvention strategies, reducing the risk of suicide and fostering long-term resilience. 

By addressing the needs of individuals, families and communities, our Rapid Response Plans ensure no one is left behind in times of grief and loss. ​

4

Our Approach

  • Community -Led Solutions: we collaborate with local Elders, Leaders and community members to ensure all programs are culturally appropriate and effective.

  • Strengths-Based Frameworks: our initiatives focus on strengths, resilience and the richness of Indigenous cultures to promote healing and empowerment. 

  • Holistic Support: addressing the social and emotional wellbeing of individuals and communities.

bottom of page