The Ripple Effect - The Australian Suicide Story
By Joe Horvat
Hosted by Joe, a mental health professional with 10+ years in crisis intervention and suicide prevention, this podcast shares raw, authentic stories from those with lived experience - loss survivors, attempt survivors, first responders, and mental health professionals.
We create a safe space where stories break down stigma and hope emerges from darkness. Every story shared creates a ripple effect that saves lives.
Warning: Contains open suicide discussions.
Crisis help: Lifeline 13 11 14
Death in the Mental Health Ward – A Deep Dive Part 1
In this episode, we examine the death of 18-year-old Tiesha Marie Derbyshire, who died by suicide while under care in the Ipswich Hospital Adult Mental Health Unit. We explore the coronial findings, system failures, and what changes have been recommended to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Trigger Warning: Suicide, self-harm, and mental health trauma.
Joe's Time To Share - Attempt stopped by love.
This episode dives into my own story for the first time.
What drives my passion for mental health?
How am I still here after multiple attempts?
If you want the answer, have a listen to this episode of The Ripple Effect.
Please be advised: this episode discusses suicide, domestic violence, drug use and other heavy topics. If any of these are triggering for you, it’s totally okay to skip this one. Your safety comes first.
Ward's Story: Being There When Dad Chose His Final Day
As someone who works in crisis mental health, very little moves me to my core anymore. This episode is different.
Ward opens up about one of life's most profound experiences – walking alongside his dad through Queensland's Voluntary Assisted Dying process and being there to hold his hand on that final day.
What you'll hear in Ward's voice isn't just advocacy – it's deep, personal conviction born from witnessing something sacred. He'll tell you how the process gave his dad something priceless in those last moments: dignity. This isn't an easy conversation, but it's one that matters.
Ward's story reminds us why having choice at the end of life isn't just about policy – it's about love, respect, and honouring the people we care about most.
Warning: This episode contains discussions about end-of-life decisions and may be emotionally challenging for some listeners.
One Suicide Attempt Changed This Mental Health Professional's Life - Erin's Story
In this powerful episode, we hear from a dedicated mental health professional whose perspective on suicide was forever changed after supporting a client through a suicide attempt. This isn't a story about what went wrong - quite the opposite. It's about what happens when you do everything right, yet still face the profound emotional aftermath of such a critical moment.
Our guest shares her experience of navigating uncharted emotional territory after her client's attempt. Despite following all protocols perfectly and providing exemplary care, she found herself grappling with unexpected fears and a completely shifted worldview around suicide. Her honest account reveals the complex reality that even when we respond flawlessly as professionals, these experiences leave lasting marks on our hearts and minds.
This episode offers valuable insights for:
- Mental health professionals who've supported clients through suicide attempts
- Support workers preparing for or processing similar experiences
- Family members and friends supporting someone with suicidal ideation
- Anyone seeking to understand the far-reaching impact of suicide attempts
We explore the natural fear responses that can emerge even when everything goes according to plan, how witnessing a client's darkest moment can reshape your entire understanding of suicide, and practical strategies for processing these intense experiences. Plus, we discuss actionable warning signs for family and friends to watch for, and healthy ways to cope with the emotional weight of supporting someone through crisis.
Remember: If you or someone you know needs immediate support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or call 000 in an emergency.
Finding Hope - The Key to Supporting Someone
In this powerful episode, we dive deep into one of the most crucial topics we'll cover - how to support a friend, family member, or even a stranger when they're experiencing suicidal thoughts.We explore the transformative power of hope and share practical, actionable tips on how you can help someone find even the smallest glimmer of hope - sometimes just for 30 seconds can make all the difference.Whether you're a mental health professional, someone with lived experience, or simply want to be better equipped to help others, this episode provides essential guidance on being a lifeline when someone needs it most.
Support The Ripple Effect: If this episode resonates with you, we'd be incredibly grateful if you'd consider supporting us on Patreon. As a small podcast, every dollar helps us continue sharing these vital conversations. Your $5 membership truly means the world to us and helps keep this important work going.Support us here: https://www.patreon.com/therippleeffectaus
Content Warning: Please be aware that this episode, like all episodes of The Ripple Effect, contains open discussions about suicide and mental health. Listener discretion is advised.
The System: Hope, Harm & Hard Truths
In this episode, we dive deep into Queensland’s public mental health system — the wins, the flaws, and everything in between. We explore the system from both sides: as mental health professionals who refer into it, and as individuals who’ve lived through it.
Joe, our co-host, brings a unique perspective. He’s not only worked within the system but has also spent years navigating it as a patient. His lived experience adds raw honesty and insight into the challenges — and the occasional hope — that the system offers.
We’ll also share some practical tips on how to advocate for yourself or a loved one when accessing mental health support. (Hint: the squeaky wheel really does get the oil.)
Got thoughts or a story to share? We’d love to hear from you. Drop us a comment or email us at contactus@therippleeffect.au.
Links mentioned in this episode:
📄 Advance Health Directive (Qld): View here
💛 Support the podcast via Patreon: patreon.com/therippleeffectaus
Episode 2 - Luke's Story
In this moving episode, we sit down with our very first guest, Laura Dickson — founder of Becoming Co. and a trauma-informed recovery coach.
Laura shares the story of Luke, her best friend who lost his life to suicide, and how that experience shaped her personal and professional journey. She also opens up about her own mental health struggles and the strength it took to not only survive but step into a role where she now supports others through their recovery.
This episode explores grief, healing, and the power of lived experience.
🔗 Learn more about Laura and her services:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nA2k79EGHbc
⚠️ Content Warning: This episode discusses suicide and mental health. Please listen with care.
Welcome to The Ripple Effect - The Australian Suicide Story
🎙️ Episode 1: Welcome to The Ripple Effect – The Australian Suicide Story
In this powerful first episode, your host Joe Horvat opens up with a deeply personal introduction, sharing his own lived experience with Complex PTSD and chronic suicidality. This podcast isn’t just about awareness — it’s about action.
🔍 What we cover in this episode:
- Joe’s journey and why this podcast exists
- The current facts and figures around suicide in Australia
- Our mission to investigate the suicide crisis and explore what real community care can look like
- How you can support someone in crisis — without needing years of training
- The meaning behind the candle: each episode begins with a candle lit in remembrance of those we’ve lost to suicide — we invite you to join us in this moment
- How you can share your story or feedback with us
💬 Get involved:
Have a story to share or want to provide feedback? Reach out:
📧 contactus@therippleeffect.au
📱 Follow us and message us on social media @therippleeffect.au