While this presentation may not reflect a typical focus for a suicide prevention conference, it offers a critical opportunity to broaden our lens. Disordered eating is highly prevalent among young people and closely linked to suicidal ideation: 21-65% of adolescents with eating disorders report current suicidal ideation—yet it remains largely under-addressed in suicide prevention efforts. By recognising its impact and integrating targeted responses into early intervention strategies, we can harness a previously untapped opportunity to support young people before distress escalates. Moreover, moving away from siloed approaches to mental health—where conditions are treated in isolation—allows services to respond more holistically. A truly integrated model of care enables schools and communities to work together in fostering environments of safety, empathy, and early support, ultimately strengthening suicide prevention efforts and promoting brighter futures for all young people.
Disordered eating and eating disorders are serious and often misunderstood mental health challenges (1)(2). While eating disorders do not directly cause suicide, they are associated with elevated psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and self-harm (3) —factors that may increase suicide risk. As such, national suicide prevention efforts must include targeted responses to these conditions as part of a broader, integrated approach to youth mental health.
At the heart of this presentation is Food for Thought (4), a school-based early intervention model designed to build the confidence, skills, and knowledge of educators to identify and respond to disordered eating. Supported by targeted interventions through headspace Centres nationwide, this integrated approach strengthens early intervention pathways across school and community settings, ensuring timely, appropriate care.
Drawing on a review of 131 studies, the session will highlight the prevalence of disordered eating, key risk factors, and the social and economic disparities that shape vulnerability, and their connection to suicidal behaviours. It will also challenge persistent myths—such as the belief that eating disorders do not carry an increased risk for suicide or medical complications—that contribute to stigma and delay help-seeking.
In alignment with the conference theme United Voices, Brighter Futures, this presentation highlights purposeful service design and community collaboration. It advocates for inclusive, youth-centered approaches that empower schools to create safe environments, foster open dialogue, and provide early support for young people experiencing mental health challenges.
This session will be of interest to educators, youth mental health professionals, and policy makers committed to holistic suicide prevention.