I'm Worried Sbout Someone

If you are concerned that someone is struggling or might be thinking about suicide and you aren't sure how to talk to them, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14. One of our trained Telephone Crisis Supporters will be there to support you.

When should I check-in?

If someone you know is struggling to cope or having a difficult time, you might feel unsure of what to say or how to help. While checking in and asking if they are okay might seem like a difficult conversation to have, it could be a life-saving one.

Everyone experiences emotional distress in diﬀerent ways. Not everyone who is having a difficult time will show outward signs, however, signs to look out for if you are worried about someone might include:

Restlessness and increased agitation
Emotional outbursts
Withdrawing from people they would usually connect with
Withdrawing from regular activities such as work or school
Describing feeling helpless, hopeless or worthless

Not wanting to do things they usually enjoy
Increased use of alcohol or other drugs
Not replying messages, calls or emails, or being distant
Talking about not being around any more

Help Someone At Risk Of Suicide - Toolkit

Common triggers

Sometimes events and experiences impact people in different ways. Some common life events or issues that people may find challenging to cope with include:

Painful or disabling physical illness
Ongoing mental health difficulties
Relationship and family problems
Heavy use of alcohol or other drugs
Job or study related stress
Traumatic event including natural disasters
Loss or death of friends or family
Financial worries
Loneliness and isolation
Life changes such as divorce or moving

There are also signs that may be an indicator that you should ask a person if they are considering suicide. While these signs are not always present, and can sometimes be unrelated, you will do no harm by asking “Are you having thoughts of suicide?” if you do see signs, and you could save a life if you do ask:

Giving away or selling property
Unusually happy (or a significant change in behaviour)
Suffering from a co-morbidity that may be overwhelming for them
Struggling with trauma, including childhood trauma and abuse
Expression of intense feelings of hopelessness or burden

If you notice someone struggling

Every one of us has the inherent ability to be a support to another person. If you see signs that someone you know is struggling, you can be a great support to them by asking if they are OK, listening and helping them to get further support. Don't underestimate the power you have to connect with another person and help them find hope and stay safe.

Reach out, ask if they are OK, and make time to listen to them, acknowledge their struggle, encourage them to keep talking.
Encourage them to seek help wherever they feel most comfortable. This might be their GP, family or friend, religious or community leader, or anyone they feel they can trust. If they're searching for local support but don't know where to start, see our Service Finder.
Ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide. It needs to be a direct question that can’t be misinterpreted such as: “Are you having thoughts of suicide?”
If they're thinking about taking their own life, encourage them to call Lifeline on 13 11 14 - or you can reach out on their behalf, we can help you keep them safe.

If you are worried about the immediate safety of the person, contact emergency services on 000.

Three steps to prevent suicide

1. Ask

If you think someone might be suicidal, ask them directly "Are you thinking about suicide?" Don’t be afraid to do this, it shows you care and will decrease their risk because it shows someone is willing to talk about it. Make sure you ask directly and unambiguously.

2. Listen and stay

If they say 'yes', they are suicidal, listen to them and allow them to express how they are feeling. Don’t leave them alone. Stay with them or get someone else reliable to stay with them.

3. Get help

Get them appropriate help. Call a crisis line like Lifeline 13 11 14 or 000 if life is in danger. If you can get in straight away, visit a GP or psychologist. Offer to make the appointment and accompany them if it is their wish. Even if the danger is not immediate they may need longer-term support for the issues that led to them feeling this way.

Self-care for you as a supporter

It is important that you as a carer, are aware of your own emotional wellbeing in order to assist others. If you feel you are unable to help the person who needs support, it is important that you get them to someone reliable that they trust that can assist them, a GP, a Psychologist, or call Lifeline.

If you need support yourself, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Carers Australia 1800 242 636 which offers short-term counselling, emotional and psychological support services for Western Australian carers and their families.