Social isolation and loneliness are recognised as socioeconomic determinants of suicide. Loneliness is not only an established suicide risk factor, but is a global public health problem, affecting individual mental health and wellbeing. Despite this, there are few formally acknowledged and evaluated interventions to address social isolation and loneliness in the community setting.
This presentation outlines key suicide risk factors related to social connection and inclusion, identifying the gaps in the published literature regarding these interventions and subsequent evaluation of these. Included is original research data describing the state of relationships in a representative sample of Australians, highlighting experiences of social and emotional loneliness, and associated challenges and pressures. The rising cost of living, for example, is one pressure exacerbating people’s ability to maintain meaningful connections.
Neighbours Every Day (NED) is Relationships Australia's year-round social connection campaign that empowers individuals, communities, organisations and governments to build a more connected, inclusive and resilient Australia—where everyone belongs. The campaign has been recognised internationally as an exemplar intervention to tackle loneliness.
This presentation will summarise the outcomes of recent evaluations of the NED campaign, with particular focus on the impact of the program in terms of suicide prevention. Included are recommendations to increase the recognition, impact and evidence base for this crucial upstream suicide prevention initiative.
The evidence is compelling: NED demonstrates exceptional cost-effectiveness and proven outcomes, with 85% of participants developing stronger neighbourhood connections that endure over time and 63% improved mental health. Despite proven impact, social connection interventions remain overlooked in suicide prevention policy. While NED has gained recognition in Australia's National Suicide Prevention Strategy 2025-2035 and the 2025 WHO Social Connection Report, systematic integration into public health frameworks is urgently needed.
A connected society benefits everyone. We call for policy makers to prioritise evidence-based community connection initiatives through dedicated funding streams and integration into mental health strategies. The community sector requires resources to systematically embed connection tools, while researchers need support for expanding the evidence base. Federal, state and local governments, businesses, and philanthropic organisations have critical roles in scaling grassroots solutions that address social isolation before it escalates to crisis.
The time has come to transition from awareness to action, scaling proven interventions that strengthen the social connections vital for suicide prevention and community wellbeing.