Helping someone who is suicidal 

It may be terrifying to realise that someone close to you has thought about taking their own life.¹ An important part of being a good mate is reaching out to them when you think they might be struggling.² If you notice warning signs and you think something might be wrong, don’t ignore them, there are a number of things you can do to help:²

• If you feel comfortable, talking is a good place to start. Tell them you are concerned and that you are there to help.³
• Supporting them to get help when they are feeling overwhelmed or suicidal is important.⁴
• Allowing someone to talk through and share their feelings is often enough to give them a different perspective on a situation.
• Don’t be afraid to ask them directly. It won’t put the idea in their head or make them take action.⁴
• If they tell you they are suicidal, don’t agree to keep their suicidal thoughts or plans a secret and don’t assume they will get better without help or that they will seek help on their own.
• Encourage them to get professional help, make an appointment with a GP and offer for someone to go with them, or contact a helpline together:⁵
  • Mental Health Emergency Response Line (24 –hour crisis telephone counselling) 1300 555 788 (Perth Metro Residents); 1800 676 822 (Peel Residents)
  • Lifeline (24 –hour crisis telephone counselling) 13 11 14
  • Suicide Callback Service 1300 659 467
  • Kids helpline (5 to 25 year olds) 1800 55 1800
  • Call 000 for urgent help. 

It is important to remember that no matter what happens, you are not responsible for their actions but you can support and encourage them to get help.

Looking after yourself

Finding that somebody close to you may be thinking about suicide can be upsetting and stressful. Therefore, it is important to look after yourself.

Make sure you are still eating and sleeping properly and managing your stress levels.⁶ Talk to someone you trust, or contact a counsellor or other professional to discuss how you can cope.⁶