Worried about someone

The idea that someone is feeling suicidal and wants to end their life can be a very confronting, and a difficult concept for many people. Understand the contributing factors and how you can help.

A person who is thinking about suicide may give some clues or suicide signs to those around them that indicate they are distressed. These are often referred to as suicide warning signs. Suicide prevention starts with recognising these suicidal warning signs and taking them seriously.

Learning that someone you care about feels suicidal often marks the beginning of a stressful time. While this news may come as a shock to you, supporting someone who is suicidal through this difficult time is important.

Discussing suicidal thoughts may seem like a daunting prospect. Learn to shape these discussions with clear and practical advice.

Looking after someone who is suicidal can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. After you’ve talked to them about how they’re feeling, the next step is to support them to get help and deal with these feelings, keeping them safe.

A safety plan identifies the practical steps the person can take when managing a suicidal crisis that they understand will help them regain a sense of control, and identify the support systems available to them.

Discovering that someone you care about has tried to end their life can be a devastating experience. Understand the common feelings and reaction and learn how to support someone after a suicide attempt.

Depression is not always obvious and there can be many signs something is wrong. If you’re worried about your friend, here are some things to look out for.

Do you have a friend that is overwhelmed or struggling to cope? Having reached out and asked how they’re going, they’ve admitted they’re not coping well, but what next? Read our advice on how you can help a friend that’s overwhelmed.

Sometimes we notice right away if a friend is struggling or is overwhelmed by a situation. Other times it may be less obvious, but if we know the warning signs to look out for, we can reach out to help them get the support they need. Read on to understand the warning signs that your friend may need help.

Talking to someone who is thinking about suicide may not be easy, but what you say and how you listen can make a significant difference to their wellbeing.

While attention and support for mental health and mental illness continue to grow, the stigma around suicide continues.