Understanding Suicide

What can you do to help? Lets look at some myths, statistics, warning signs, and real ways to engage with someone you care about who may be at risk.

Did you know?

• Suicide is the leading cause of death in Aussies aged 15yrs to 44yrs and the leading killer of men under 55yrs.

• An average of 8 Aussies die every day by suicide, that’s more than double our national road toll.

• 76% of suicides in Australia are carried out by men.

• Women are more likely to attempt suicide however men are more likely to succeed.

• 75% of male suicides are not linked to any current mental health conditions like depression, but are linked to relationship issues, work or money issues, and drugs and alcohol.

• The rate for females aged 0 to 14yrs attempting suicide has increased 14% over the past 2yrs.

“Suicide - The final strategy to reduce overwhelming distress, when a person

has no other effective strategies” Helen Stallman, Amanda D Hutchinson, Jeneva L Ohan. (2020)

So What can I do?

Learn the to recognise the warning signs. There are numerous warning signs a person may exhibit, some people will show 1 or more of these, some may not show any. Suicide warning signs are often unique to the individual. Not everyone will exhibit the same signs, typically they will all involve some degree of change. Change from what is usual or ‘normal’ for that particular person is your greatest indicator.

Warning Signs

Physical changes

* Loss of energy * Loss of interest in personal hygiene or appearance

* Weight gain/loss * Sudden and extreme change in eating habits

* Increase in minor illness * Major changes in sleeping patterns

Behaviours

* Unexplained crying * Emotional outbursts

* Alcohol and/or drug misuse * Fighting and/or breaking the law

* Uncharacteristic risk taking or recklessness * Prior suicidal behaviour

* Withdrawal from family or friends * Quitting social activities

* Self harming

* Putting affairs in order eg returning borrowed tools, giving away possessions especially if they hold significance to the individual, making amends with people

Conversational signs

* I can't take this anymore

* What's the point, things will never get better

* I feel like there's no way out

* It's all my fault, I'm to blame

* Nothing I do makes any difference

* Threatening to hurt or kill themselves

* Talking about suicide or death

* Planning for suicide (Do not take threats lightly, always check in with the person or a family member , or work colleague. Always report an incident or call 000 if unsure)

Feelings

* Despair * Sadness * Anger * Shame

* Worthlessness * Powerlessness * Loneliness * Isolation

* Disconnection * Hopelessness * Guilt

What if I suspect there may be something wrong?

Speak to the person. Sometimes people don't know how to approach the subject of suicide or mental health in general. Old school thoughts were ‘if you talk about it, you will put ideas in their head’, this simply is not true. Giving the person the opportunity to talk in a safe, secure environment and not feel judged or that they might lose their job or they might be ‘locked up’, can provide relief from loneliness. Simply ask the person - Are you considering suicide? Are you having thoughts of wanting to die? Are you wanting to harm yourself?

Things to say to initiate a conversation

* I’ve been worried about you lately

* I wanted to check in with you as you don't seem yourself

Continue the conversation

* How can I best support you

* How long have you been feeling this way

* You are not alone, I would like to be here to help you

* I don't understand how you feel but I care for you and I would like to know how I can help you

Help, they said yes!

If someone acknowledges they are having suicidal thoughts ask them the following questions

* Have you considered how you would commit suicide? If yes, how?

* Do you have access to that (their means)?

* Have you thought about when you will do this?

* Have you thought about where?

If they answer yes to any of these questions please call 000, they will advise you on how best to proceed. Don’t leave the person alone if safe to stay, do not place yourself in danger. Stay calm and reassuring.

What if I’m not comfortable speaking about suicide?

There are a number of services available for you to contact for advice, depending on your level of concern.

* www.beyondblue.org.au

* Lifeline 13 11 14

* www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au or call 1300 659 467

* Speak to a Supervisor or Manager and ask about your Employee Assistance Program if you are concerned about a colleague.

* Speak to a family member, parent, adult child, aunt, uncle

* Contact a mental health professional, GP, Mental health clinician, 13HEALTH

* Ask for a police welfare check if you can’t get to the person yourself

* Call 000 if you are in any doubt

Dispelling the myths

Myth: If someone is talking about suicide they’re seeking attention.

Fact: If someone is talking about taking their own life or having thoughts of harming themselves it should be taken seriously

Myth: Someone who is suicidal is determined to die.

Fact: When someone is suicidal they are usually feeling alone or like they are a burden. They are in need of emotional support.

Myth: Most suicides happen without warning.

Fact: Most suicides are preceded by verbal and/or behavioural warning signs. It is important to understand these signs and look out for them.

Myth: Only weak people have suicidal thoughts because its the easy way out.

Fact: Suicide is an extreme measure taken by normal everyday people. They can’t find any other way out of their situation. They have exhausted all their tools in their toolbox and have no further coping strategies.

Let's make a difference in someone's life today.

Ask the question - Have you had, or are you having suicidal thoughts?