Individuals bereaved by suicide are eight times more likely to die by suicide themselves and this highlights the urgent need for effective support for this vulnerable population (Cerel et al., 2018; Mental Health Commission, 2024; Slade et al., 2009). In 2022, Australia witnessed 3,249 deaths by suicide, a figure that continues to rise (ABS, 2022). Moreover, for each suicide, it is estimated that at least 135 people are affected, with six experiencing intense or prolonged grief (Cerel et al., 2014; Linde et al., 2017).
Traditional intervention approaches have typically involved either professional support or peer support programs. Organizations like Anglicare WA have successfully integrated both these methods, blending professional expertise with peer insight to collaboratively and holistically assist individuals in processing their grief.
This presentation will explore research conducted at Edith Cowan University that examines the impact of peer support workers on clinical practice. While the benefits of such collaborations have been studied in other mental health recovery fields, this important topic has not yet been addressed within the literature on suicide bereavement support (Kidd, et al, 2014; Lorien, et al., 2020; Parker, et al, 2017; Parker et al., 2023).
Through in-depth interviews of 15 Western Australian psychologists, counsellors, and social workers working within a peer support model, the study revealed how collaboration with peer support workers enhanced the effectiveness of clinical practice and clinician empathy. Clinicians reported a greater ability to connect with clients, maintaining openness, focus, and curiosity during sessions. They also noted the ability to suggest more varied and nuanced coping strategies, to hold hope for clients in despair, and to practice strength-based approaches that incorporate real-life resilience.
This research embodies hope, unity, and progress, with the potential to enhance and enrich clinician training through the insights of lived experience. By offering forward-thinking solutions, this study contributes to advancing suicide prevention efforts and aims to improve support systems, ultimately working toward reducing mortality rates among those bereaved by suicide