Beyond Blue is a trusted source of information and support on suicide prevention, we provide information to people at risk of suicide or who have attempted to take their life with support options, and give practical advice for people worried about someone they think might be suicidal on how to help.
Below is an overview of the sections on our website that provide information on suicide for people feeling suicidal, worried about someone suicidal, who have attempted suicide or grieving a suicide death.
If you are in an emergency, or at immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, please contact emergency services on 000 or visit our Get support now page for other services.
Crisis support
If you are in an emergency, or at immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, please contact emergency services on 000. Other services include:
Suicidal warning signs
If you are having thoughts about suicide there could also be some behavioural and/or physical changes that could tell you something isn’t right.
It might be subtle, but it’s likely that you notice a number of signs rather than just one or two. Remember that everyone is different and respond differently to these thoughts and feelings.
Non-verbal indicators may include:
social withdrawal
a persistent drop in mood
disinterest in maintaining personal hygiene or appearance
uncharacteristically reckless behaviour
poor diet changes, rapid weight changes
being distracted
anger
insomnia
alcohol or drug abuse
giving away sentimental or expensive possessions
Indirect verbal expressions may include:
hopelessness
failing to see a future
believing they are a burden to others
saying they feel worthless or alone
talking about their death or wanting to die.
This is not an exhaustive list. Be guided by your instincts.
Reasons for suicidal feelings
The reasons that people take their own lives are often very complex. Factors influencing whether someone is likely to be suicidal include:
Risk factors – sometimes called vulnerability factors, these factors increase the likelihood of suicidal behaviour.
Risk factors include:
Previous suicide attempts
History of substance abuse
History of mental health conditions – depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD
Relationship problems – conflict with parents and / or romantic partners
Legal or disciplinary problems
Access to harmful means, such as medication or weapons
Recent death or suicide of a family member or a close friend
Ongoing exposure to bullying behaviour
Physical illness or disability.
Protective factors – these reduce the likelihood of suicidal behaviour, and work to improve a person’s ability to cope with difficult circumstances.