Suicide prevention DVD launches in Broome

A grassroots suicide prevention educational and awareness DVD targeting at-risk young women launched in Broome last week.

The locally-produced resource was created by the Alive and Kicking Goals’ suicide prevention women’s reference group in partnership with Our Generation Media and Men’s Outreach Service, and was funded by Beyond Blue.

It features 11 past and current members of the reference group who have been personally affected by suicide including Aggie Pigram, Amelia Bin Sali, Amanda Sibosado, Tonii Skeen and Aimee Howard.

In the video, the women share their real-life experiences and encourage young women to speak out instead of suffering in silence.

Around 200 people attended the launch at Goolarri Media’s Gimme Club including Alive and Kicking Goals patron Pat Dodson, Nyamba Buru Yawuru chief executive Peter Yu, Bishop Christopher Saunders and Mala Croft on behalf of Kimberley MP Josie Farrer.

WRG chairwoman Tiffany Roe said she believed the DVD would give hope to young girls, especially those in remote communities.

“The suicide numbers are increasing,” she said.

“We’re trying to get key messages out to young indigenous Australians about not being shamed about their feelings, that it’s OK to not be OK and just encouraging and supporting young women to tell someone when their Liyan is not good.”

Member Aggie Pigram said the resource promoted important messages.

“Our people are suffering from a spiritual imbalance and the four key messages in the DVD touch on that. They are: knowing who you are and where you come from, country and culture keep us strong, breaking the silence without shame, and keeping strong and moving forward,” she said.

The DVD will be rolled out via workshops delivered by AKG staff and volunteers.

A five minute clip can be found on Youtube.

For more information call AKG program manager Vennessa Poelina on 9193 5904 or email vennessa@aliveandkicking.org.au.

If you or someone you know is affected by suicide call Lifeline on 13 11 14.