We’re here to help
If you are worried that someone is about to harm themselves or may have already acted to end their life, call 000 immediately. Emergency services will respond to concerns for another person’s safety.
For less urgent support, contact Lifeline. A trained Crisis Supporter can talk you through what to do next, understand how to support the person you’re worried about, suggest resources, and give you space to process your own emotions. You don’t need to navigate this alone — Lifeline is here for you as well as the person at risk.
How to tell if someone needs support?
It’s not always easy to tell when someone is struggling. Many people keep their emotions to themselves, but subtle changes in behaviour or mood can be signs that someone needs help.
It’s a good idea to check in on someone who’s displaying these common signs of distress:
- Acting detached or withdrawn from friends and family
- Sleeping or eating less
- Taking more risks
- Increased use of drugs or alcohol
- Losing interest in things that were once important to them
- Saying they can’t go on, or they don’t want to be here anymore
- Talking about being a burden
There are many reasons why someone in your life might need help. Some to consider include:
- Relationship changes, like a breakup or divorce
- Losing a job or facing pressure at work
- Chronic illness
- Traumatic experiences
- Losing a loved one
- Changes to their family dynamic, like having a baby
What to do if someone is suicidal
Ask
Don’t be afraid of using direct language. Ask them: ‘Are you thinking about suicide?’ Asking directly won’t put the idea of suicide into their head. Instead, it shows you’re taking their distress seriously.
Listen and stay
If the answer is ‘yes’, stay with them. Don’t leave them alone. Allow them to talk about how they’re feeling without judgement.
Get help
Call 000 if a life is in immediate danger. Otherwise, encourage them to access support services, like Lifeline’s 24/7 crisis support line. Help them make an appointment to see their GP or a psychologist.
Looking after yourself while supporting someone else
Supporting someone in distress can feel overwhelming, and it’s easy to lose sight of your own needs along the way. If you’re struggling, call Lifeline 24/7 on 13 11 14.
