Silent Epidemic, The (ATOM Study Guide)

The Silent Epidemic delves into the misunderstood world of self-injury, shedding light on groundbreaking scientific research that could help the 200,000 Australians who, in any month, engage in this self-harming behaviour.

A high percentage of people who self-injure are teenagers and young adults, so this documentary offers insights and understanding into a practice about which many young people will probably be aware. As the title The Silent Epidemic suggests, the reasons for these behaviours are rarely talked about or acknowledged within the general community and in families, and are often shrouded in shame and a lack of understanding.

The documentary would also be helpful to secondary and trainee teachers working in student welfare areas who are likely to work with students who self-injure.

Visually striking and enlightening, the program challenges the conventional documentary science narrative by interweaving scientific experiments and research with the personal journeys of young Australians. The program presents the material in a sensitive and non-sensationalist style.

Curriculum links

The Silent Epidemic is suitable for middle, senior and tertiary students in the following subject areas:

• Health and Human Development/Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE)
• Biology
• Community and Family Studies
• Psychology – the program is particularly relevant to work units on 'Brain, Behaviour and Development'
• Sociology
• Values Education and related subjects such as Life Skills