Suicide

Message / Question

What would you say to someone who was thinking about taking their life?

Response

Suicide is a very real problem in Australia, we lose 6.22 people per day (2014 statistics) to suicide..... and, no, it’s not a misprint, it is 6.22 per DAY not per week or month.

A suicidal person may not ask for help, but that doesn't mean that help isn't wanted. Most people who commit suicide don't want to die—they just want to stop hurting. Suicide prevention starts with recognizing the warning signs and taking them seriously. If you think a friend or family member is considering suicide, you might be afraid to bring up the subject. But talking openly about suicidal thoughts and feelings can save a life.

If you are concerned that someone you know may be contemplating suicide, there are a few things that you can do.

Let them know that you care, tell them that you are there to help.

Ask if they are thinking about suicide and if they have made any plans. Talking about suicide won’t make them do it, in fact asking may actually show them that you do care. Asking will help them talk about their feelings and plans – the first step to getting help.

Take action to get help immediately. Tell them that there are other options to suicide, never agree to keep their suicidal thoughts or plans a secret and never assume they will simply get better without help or that they will seek help on their own.

If the person is thinking about suicide, get them to make an appointment with a GP and offer to go with them to the appointment. Contact a specialist helpline for information and advice.

If you observe a sudden sense of calm and happiness after they have been extremely depressed for a while, it can mean that the person has made a decision to commit suicide

If they tell you that they have made a plan to end their life, ask what it is then see if they’re able to carry out this plan. Do they have a time, place or method? Call 000 and report that the person is suicidal, has made a plan, and you fear for their safety.

And don’t forget yourself – it is an emotionally stressful to support someone who is suicidal – make sure that you find someone to talk things over with, such as family, friends or a helpline.

Here’s a few Australia wide phone numbers that may help: Lifeline 13 11 14, Suicide Callback Service 1300 659 467, Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800.

If you believe that someone is at serious and possibly imminent threat of suicide, but you just can’t bring yourself to talk to them personally, call 000 and tell the police of your concern for the safety of the person concerned....do NOT simply do nothing!!!