Guest Blog: The best is yet to come
The following is a guest recap from Trevor Philpot, member of the Collaborative, who joined us at the National Suicide Prevention Conference 2024.
About the 2024 Suicide Prevention Conference
This event provides a gateway to unite suicide prevention experts, showcase the latest research, share evidence-based solutions, and focus on saving lives.
This year’s theme: ‘Collective Courage, Accelerate Impact’ aimed to empower the delegates to take meaningful action, understand the real impact of their work, and contribute to collective efforts in suicide prevention.
Hello to you all. Firstly, I would like to acknowledge everyone who is giving their time and efforts to create meaningful change and focus on saving lives.
I was extremely excited when I was invited to attend the 25th National Suicide Prevention Conference in Adelaide.
I have to confess it was timely. Sadly, I have been contemplating stepping down for a while. Over the past 18 years, my work as a drug and alcohol counsellor has given me profound insights into the challenges faced by those struggling with mental health, particularly those contemplating suicide.
My professional trajectory has thrust me into numerous situations where I've directly engaged with community members grappling with these issues, allowing me to use my expertise and compassion to offer support and guidance.
Through these interactions, I have witnessed the ripple effect that mental health challenges, especially suicide, have on individuals, families, and the broader community. Such first-hand experiences have not only deepened my understanding but also intensified my commitment to proactive interventions and raising awareness.
To that end, I am one of many and proud to have been instrumental in establishing the Suicide Intervention Carnival, "Diamonds In The Sky." Over the past 12 years, this initiative has grown into a pivotal event in our region, shining a light on suicide prevention and serving as a beacon of hope and awareness. The carnival's enduring presence is a testament to the collective desire to understand, empathise, and support those in our community facing suicide and self-harm.
My lived experiences, both professionally and personally, serve as a constant reminder of the pressing need to remain engaged, informed, and proactive. By intertwining my knowledge as a counsellor with these experiences, I have sought to transform personal encounters into broader community outreach, ensuring that the lessons learned are shared, and the support is widespread.
Attending the National Suicide Prevention Conference was incredibly impactful. Not only did I gain valuable knowledge but I also had the opportunity to connect with inspiring individuals and build new relationships.
Knowing that you’re part of a supportive community dedicated to such an important cause can definitely be empowering. Keep nurturing those connections and remember that together, we can achieve even greater things in the fight against suicide.
I heard someone recite a proverb at the conference: If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go further, Let’s go together. Together supporting one another, we can make an impact on individuals, communities, and regions.
The best truly is yet to come!
