This paper presents a review of literature, research, and practice relating
to suicide and intentional self-injury. It incorporates both an internatio
nal perspective and a particular focus on Australia. The paper reviews the
epidemiological knowledge base, noting its complexity and the ways in which
risk factors may Vary with the population or subpopulation being studied.
While much of the recent focus on suicide has been shaped by the increase i
n youth suicide, suicide remains a significant problem across all adult age
groups. Hence. this paper discusses suicide across the life span, but also
identifies youth suicide and Indigenous suicide as two areas of particular
concern. In relation to Indigenous suicide, it is important to move from a
national focus to examine regional suicide patterns and conditions of risk
within particular communities. The paper considers core principles of clin
ical assessment and intervention, acknowledging the powerful emotions and s
ensitive, complex judgments involved in this work. Mental health service pr
ovision is briefly reviewed and issues of concern identified, ranging from
gaps in services to the need for more research and training in referral pro
cesses. Conceptualisations of suicide prevention and postvention are outlin
ed, noting considerable debate about preferred approaches and a clear need
for careful evaluation.