Joint report with Suicide Prevention Australia: Relationships and Suicide Risk – April 2026

May 7, 2026

There is a body of existing research that highlights the broad importance, function and impact of healthy relationships on individuals. This report however seeks to draw from this knowledge and better understand how relationships function as protective mechanisms against suicidal distress. In addition, the report builds on this to identify the risk factors of unhealthy relationships and how they can act as a risk factor for suicidal distress.

This report provides an in-depth breakdown of the impacts of relationships across different demographics, their experiences, and consequently their needs. At its core, it is about identifying how to effectively and sustainably support people who love, care for and support people experiencing suicidal distress. The purpose is to illustrate how by coordinating and concentrating supports on relationships, we will be able to improve the wellbeing of those in distress, and those who try their best to support them.