3DN researchers have published new findings that reveal the link between dementia diagnosis and self-harm.
The research highlights the need for health services to offer more follow-up support within the first six to 12 months after an initial diagnosis of dementia.
Scientia Associate Professor Simone Reppermund of 3DN, says the research suggests that health services, including primary care physicians, should view dementia diagnoses with a new sense of urgency.
“The message to clinicians and indeed, the outside world, is that it is really important, once a person gets a diagnosis of dementia, that psychosocial and mental health supports are kicking in straight away,” she says.
“We would like to see people who are initially diagnosed to get the support very early on to prevent self-harm and suicide later on. Even without dementia, men 85 and over are in the age group with the highest age-specific suicide rates, so it’s doubly important we offer extra care for people diagnosed with dementia.”
Download our information sheets
We have produced information sheets that summarise the findings of our research and have recommendations:
These information sheets have been produced with the help of the Dementia Australia Research Foundation.
Find out more
- Read the research Risk factors for dementia and self-harm: a linkage study, Alzheimer's & Dementia, 1 May 2023, https://doi.org/10.1002/alz.13080
- This is the first publication from our Health profiles, health services use and transition to dementia in individuals with self-harm project.
- Read the full media release
- Stephen was diagnosed with dementia at 60. Then he was shown the door, Sydney Morning Herald, 2 May 2023
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