In Crisis or Thinking about Suicide?
Mental health is the state of your emotional, psychological and social wellbeing. It shapes the way you think, feel, act and handle stress as well as how you relate to others.
What can I do now?
Call a crisis support line and talk to someone about how you are feeling.
Download the BeyondNow App and develop a safety plan
Postpone any decision to end your life for 24hrs and find someone you feel safe talking to.
If you need to, watch a video on what will happen when you call a helpline.
If you’re thinking about ending your life, things may feel really overwhelming and hopeless right now. But there are ways to get through these feelings, and support is available.
Start by trying some of the tips below, and remember—there is always someone you can talk to. You don’t have to face this alone.
Slow your breathing
Taking in slow deep breaths allows you to calm your nervous system, and think clearly.
Postpone your decision to end your life
When suicidal thoughts feel very strong, it can seem like you need to act on them right away. It is really important to not give in to these thoughts.
Remind yourself that these thoughts won’t last forever—they can pass, even if they feel intense right now.
Distractions
Keep a list of things you can do to distract yourself when you’re feeling overwhelmed. This could include:
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Listening to your favourite music or watching TV
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Reading a book or going to a movie
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phone a friend for a chat about anything!
Get some fresh air - go for a walk or run, play a sport.
Tell someone
It might feel hard, but talking to someone you trust can really help. They can offer a different way of looking at your problems or feelings that are overwhelming you and help you think through what to do.
It can also remind you that people care about you and that YOU MATTER. Talking things through can help you see what’s important to you and remember your reasons for living.
You can talk to anyone you feel comfortable with. If someone doesn’t listen or understand at first, keep trying until you find someone who does.
Sometimes people don’t respond well straight away because they’re unsure what to say. Even though that can be hard, don’t give up on reaching out.
SAFE PEOPLE I COULD TALK TO
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If you find talking to someone about how you are feeling, then write them a letter to read, at least you are still letting someone know!
The Safety Plan
Visit your GP / Psychologist to have developed an action plan for keeping yourself safe
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Recognising warning signs and personal triggering events
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Creating a safe environment
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Identifying reasons to live
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Identifying things I can do by myself
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Connecting with people and places
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Reaching out to trusted family and friends in a crisis
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Seeking professional support.
Some young people may not wish to complete a step, or steps, in the Safety Plan.
Their plan is unique to them and is all about keeping safe. If certain steps aren't helpful or create an additional source of burden, stress or conflict, these can be left out. A Safety Plan should be modified over time to ensure it is effective. The young person might review their Safety Plan with the wellbeing team, their health professional or another significant support person.
https://beyou.edu.au/resources/fact-sheets/suicide-prevention-and-response/creating-a-safety-plan
Amby’s Army acknowledges reachout.com and Beyond Blue for material references.