Suicide is one of those topics that is increasingly filling the narratives of our movies, TV shows, and books. Yet, having a conversation about the topic is somehow taboo. The suicide rate in Australia is on the rise. In fact, it is number 13 on the list of causes of death, right alongside heart disease and breast cancer, so why are we still so nervous to talk about suicide and suicide prevention? Maybe we just don’t know how to start the conversation. Here are some useful tips and facts about suicide that can hopefully provide you tools and information about this serious topic.
If you are worried about someone committing suicide, know this:
- Talking about suicide will not give someone “the idea”. Most individuals who are thinking about suicide find it incredibly helpful for a friend to openly ask about it. They may want to talk about it but are uncomfortable starting the conversation, or embarrassed about their feelings. Have the courage to start the conversation.
- If you talk about suicide with someone, you do not have to shoulder the burden alone. There are trained professionals and community supports to help care for someone with suicidal thoughts. You may be the strength someone needs to make the phone call and reach out for help.
- Warning signs may include: talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose, talking about being a burden on others, talking about not wanting to be around, sleeping too much or too little, increased use in alcohol or drugs, mood swings, risk taking behavior, isolation, loss of motivation and helplessness.
- Remember: suicidal thoughts do not discriminate by age, race, or gender.
If you are dealing with suicidal thoughts, know this:
- You are not crazy and you are not alone. Many people deal with suicidal thoughts and they are usually a symptom of having to cope with incredibly stressful and challenging obstacles in life.
- Emotions are not fixed. These feelings will not last forever. There is always hope for the future.
- Opening this article is already a great start to getting help. Continue on this path by reaching out to professionals for help. They can guide you through this period.
- There are professional 24 hour services you can ask for help from (in Australia):
Life Line – 13 11 14
Crisis Assessment and Treatment Team – 1800 629 354
Suicide Call-back Service – 1300 659 467
Emergency Services Ambulance – 000
When thoughts are overwhelming it is understandably hard to think clearly. Filling out this safety plan and leaving it in an easily assessable location is a helpful tool to have in these challenging moments as a reminder of how to stay safe.
My Safety plan
My warning signs
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Things I can to by myself to help
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Social things I can do that help
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People I can contact for help
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If you are not in immediate danger and would like to book an appointment with a psychologist
call us on (02) 6262 6157 or book an appointment online.