Suicidal thoughts are more common than you may realise and can occur to anyone at any point in their life.
Thoughts can be triggered by events or circumstances that have impacted your life, such as a relationship breakdown, the death of a loved one or loss of employment. These events are just some examples of what can trigger suicidal thoughts and it is important to remember that each situation is unique to the individual.
When you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, you may feel overwhelmed by the emotional pain that can include feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness. This can then lead to an individual isolating themselves and believing that there is no way out. At this point, suicidal behaviour may be considered in order to end the emotional pain.
Please call 000 immediately if your life is in danger and you are considering acting on your suicidal thoughts. You can also call Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 for crisis support 24/7.
Although your thoughts may make you think otherwise, YOU ARE NEVER ALONE! Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, it is a sign of bravery and an important first step to help you get through your struggles. You CAN get through this with support.
If you don’t feel comfortable speaking to a family member or friend about what you are experiencing, you can seek help from a trained professional such as a GP, psychologist and/or psychiatrist.
How you can help someone who is experiencing thoughts of suicide:
If you are concerned about someone in your life possibly having suicidal thoughts, it is very important to help them find the right support as soon as possible. There are a few things you can do immediately if someone reaches out to you for help:
- Don’t ignore or dismiss the person’s thoughts and feelings.
- Maintain a calm and gentle manner (either on the phone or in person).
- Ask the person if they are safe, or if they are thinking of harming themselves or taking their life.
- Listen without judgement and be patient.
- Rather than giving your opinion, ask questions in a way that encourages the person to share what they are thinking and feeling with you.
- Reassure the person that it is okay to feel what they are feeling and that help is available.
- Reassure the person that you will stay with them (either on the phone or in person), until they feel safe and ask if you can take them to get professional help, or if they have a support person who you can contact.
