How to break negative thought loops
We all worry at times, but what should you do when your thoughts spiral out of control into a negative thought loop?
Read moreTalking about suicide to someone and sharing your suicidal feelings can be very difficult. You might feel that it is easier to keep it to yourself rather than taking the risk of telling someone. However, if you choose the right person, someone you trust, then talking with them about how you are feeling can help.
If you have been experiencing thoughts of suicide, itโs important to reach out and let someone know who can support you. For many people, opening up about our feelings can be difficult, but talking things through is helpful as sometimes if we hold it all in they can become even worse and more difficult to cope with. Thoughts of suicide can be very upsetting and an isolating experience. By letting someone know, you can feel less alone, and they will be able to offer you support.
If you arenโt sure who to talk to or how to approach the conversation, read on for advice.
While it can feel hard to approach someone to open up about thoughts of suicide, remember that the right people will want to listen, help and be there for you. If you arenโt sure who to speak to, here are a few important things to consider.
It is important to choose someone who you can trust and who you can be honest with. This can be a friend or family member, a doctor, a teacher, or someone else in your life who you feel safe with. Consider who knows you well and will take the time to listen to you if you need to talk. These conversations can sometimes be difficult, so you want to feel comfortable enough that you can be totally open and honest with the person you speak to.
If there isnโt someone close to you that you trust to speak to, remember that mental health professionals such as counsellors and psychologists are experienced in these areas and can provide expert advice and support. Some people prefer this option as itโs a safe space where they can share openly to someone who doesnโt know them in their personal life.
You can also talk to a counsellor on a helpline such as the Suicide Call Back Serviceย 1300 659 467, which is free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Be clear and honest with them about all of the things that are troubling you, including your suicidal thoughts and feelings.
Begin by talking to someone about what’s stressing or upsetting you, let them know how you’ve been struggling and how you’re feeling.
Listed below are some ideas to get you started, which you can adapt to use in your own words. This can be a difficult conversation to start, take your time so you are comfortable and ready.
If you arenโt able to meet face-to-face for the conversation, consider doing it over the phone or writing a letter so you can communicate everything you need to in a way that best suits you.
When talking about your thoughts about wanting to end your life or hurt yourself to a health professional, it is important to let them know whether you have:
Telling a health professional this information is an important part of making sure you get the right support to help you through these stressful times. Talking about suicide can be hard, but it is important to get support for yourself at this difficult time.
For more information, see Accessing professional support and Helping yourself when you are suicidal.
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.
We all worry at times, but what should you do when your thoughts spiral out of control into a negative thought loop?
Read moreA suicide safety plan can help to keep you safe when you are low or feeling suicidal.ย 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 youโre 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.
Read moreTalking about suicide to someone and sharing your suicidal feelings can be very difficult. You might feel that it is easier to keep it to yourself rather than taking the risk of telling someone. However, if you choose the right person, someone you trust, then talking with them about how you are feeling can help.
Read more