If you have made an attempt to end your life, you may have mixed feelings about what you have been through. It is important to remember that while all these feelings are probably very intense at the moment, they will pass and a return to the normal pattern of living is possible.
If you have made an attempt to end your life, you may have mixed feelings about what you have been through. It may be that you feel embarrassed, confused, relieved, disappointed, or resentful that you need help.
A common experience for people after a suicide attempt is fatigue and physical exhaustion. The suicide attempt, reactions from other people and treatment in the emergency department may all be overwhelming for you right now.
It is important to remember that while all these feelings are probably very intense at the moment, they will pass and a return to the normal pattern of living is possible.
It might be helpful at this time to reflect on your reasons to live. It may be your family, children, friends or even a beloved pet that are your most important reasons for living. Perhaps it’s a passion or interest that is meaningful to you.
While reflecting, you may want to write them down and keep these thoughts accessible in case you are feeling suicidal in the future.
Despite the many prevention programs, suicide is still a sensitive subject and is largely misunderstood. The stigma surrounding suicide might cause you to worry about what other people are thinking. Remember that it is up to you who you choose to talk with about what is going on right now.
At this time, it is important to be kind to yourself and surround yourself with trusted and supportive people. Building a strong support network is a key step in recovering from a suicide attempt and keeping safe in the future. It is helpful to have at least one person you can confide in, especially if you start to have thoughts of ending your life again.
Following a suicide attempt, it is likely that you have been referred to a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health professional. It is important to call on this support to help you get through this tough time, and deal with the issues that brought you to this point.
Recovery from suicidal feelings is possible. You can learn how to manage these thoughts in the future to keep yourself safe, or you may get to a place where you no longer have these thoughts at all. Other people have recovered from suicide attempts and you can too.
Remember, even if you feel like you are alone, there are people who can help you. Below are some ideas that can be put in place now to keep you safe in the future.
Working with your counsellor or doctor, create a plan that you can follow should the suicidal thoughts return. When creating a safety plan, it is important to be as honest as you can to ensure you are comfortable with your plan and it meets your needs. To get some tips on creating a safety plan see our Making a safety plan page.
As part of your safety plan, create a list of services that you can turn to when you are in trouble. Helplines can be a good place to start. The Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 provides help to people who are at risk of suicide 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is a good idea to have your safety plan with you when you make the call because the counsellor can work with your plan to help keep you safe. If you don’t have a plan, a counsellor can help you create one.
Identify what sets off the negative thoughts. It may be that these thoughts are triggered when you spend a lot of time alone, when you are exposed to stressful situations, or perhaps on the anniversary of a painful event. Whatever the trigger is, make use of the safety plan when your triggers arise before you start to have the suicidal thoughts.
This can be a breathing exercise, progressive muscle relaxation or meditation. These activities can help to calm you and distract you from the intense thoughts. For some examples of relaxation techniques see our Helping yourself when you are suicidal page.
Write down some activities that you may find helpful in distracting you from the intrusive negative thoughts.
These might include the following:
Now more than ever it is important to look after yourself. For a while at least, life might feel dreary, uncomfortable or strange. Establishing a routine can help you to get through this difficult period. Eating well, getting enough sleep and doing some physical activity will help improve your mood. You can start introducing more things into your routine once you feel ready.
Should you continue to have suicidal thoughts, it is important that you get help. If you’re already receiving professional help or support, it’s important that you stay in contact with these services, particularly if you’re feeling distressed. If you feel you need some extra support, you may wish to consider calling a crisis line like the Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 or Lifeline 13 11 14.
You could also reach out to a trusted friend or family member. It’s very important that you are honest with the person who is helping you. Let them know how you’re feeling, and what you think you need to ensure you get the best possible help.
Recovery is different for everyone and it may take time, but it is possible.
If you are in immediate danger, or concerned for your safety in any way:
If you are feeling suicidal and need someone to talk to, call the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 to speak to a counsellor.
If it is an emergency, please call 000.
Having suicidal thoughts can be a response to feeling overwhelmed, as if your life is out of your control and that it will never get better. Read on for a list of things some people have found helpful when feeling overwhelmed.
Read moreMade up of psychiatric nurses, social workers psychiatrists and psychologists, Crisis assessment and treatment teams (CATT) are based at your nearest local major hospital, and provide help during mental health emergencies.
Read moreA suicide safety plan can help to keep you safe when you are low or feeling suicidal. Your safety plan will remind you of reasons to live and connect you with the people and services who can help during the tough times, giving you some perspective when you’re feeling low.
Read moreFeeling suicidal can be an overwhelming and painful experience, but it is not something you have to bear alone. Asking for help is an important step towards getting the professional support you need.
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