Suicide remains the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15–24, and the nation now records the second-highest rate of self-harm hospitalizations among developed countries, trailing only France.
Presentations of suicidal behaviors and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) are increasing among young people, posing a significant clinical challenge. In response, the "Suicide and NSSI in Children and Adolescents: Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline" has been published and accepted as a resource by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). The guideline aims to provide direction in a field where evidence has historically been limited.
Development Methodology
The guideline was developed through a collaborative process involving people with lived experience, clinicians, researchers, and policymakers. Four systematic literature reviews were conducted to identify evidence. Where evidence was lacking, recommendations were based on clinical consensus and input from young people and families.
Findings and Recommendations
Systematic reviews found limited evidence guiding clinical practice for youth suicide and self-harm. For example, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is evidence-based but often inaccessible due to cost and training requirements.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is evidence-based but often inaccessible due to cost and training requirements.
The guideline also recommends cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as an alternative.