The SMS SOS project trial will send patients text messages with words of support and information on where to get help following their discharge from the hospital. The text messages will continue to be sent every one to two months for an entire year.
The trial will build on existing post-hospital care to provide coordinated support.
After Westmead Hospital, the trial will expand to Nepean and Blacktown Hospitals.
Minister for Mental Health Tanya Davies said suicide has a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities.
“We hope this trial will improve existing support for people when they need it the most,” Mrs Davies said.
“For many who attempt suicide, a visit to the emergency department is an important door to much needed mental health care, this is why we must continue to develop new ways to reduce the rate of self-harm.”
Find out more about suicide prevention
If you or someone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.