World Suicide Prevention Day – 10th September 2024
Tuesday, 10th September 2024, marks World Suicide Prevention Day, observed in more than 60 countries with a common goal: to raise awareness, reduce stigma, advocate for policy change, and honour the memories of those lost to suicide. Every life lost leaves behind grieving families, friends, and communities who continue to feel the pain.
In Australia, nearly 10 million people have been affected by suicide, equating to almost half of our nation. We all have a role to play in making a difference.
Lifeline’s Tanya Blazewicz shares her lived experience, insights, and practical support advice on what worked for her and how to reach out for support.
Tanya said:
“When I was feeling suicidal, it was all the little ways that people helped that made a difference. A meal, a video game, a Netflix show watched together. Someone sending a meme. Someone offering to wash the dishes or do my laundry. I didn’t always want or need a big conversation. I wanted to feel less alone, and I needed help with the practical things.”
Warning signs that someone may be thinking about suicide:
Discussions surrounding suicide, even if it seems to be a joke
Being moody, withdrawn, or sad (Note: a sudden positive mood can also be a concerning sign as it may mean a person has made up their mind to suicide)
Losing interest in things they previously enjoyed
Taking less care with their appearance
Anxiety or agitation, including difficulty concentrating or sleeping
Engaging in self-destructive or risky behaviour
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Previous suicide attempts
Giving possessions away and saying goodbye
Gaining access to means of ending their life
5 Things you can do to help a friend, relative, or co-worker in distress:
Reach Out — Ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide. It needs to be a direct question that can’t be misinterpreted. Say: “Are you thinking about suicide?” Most people with thoughts of suicide want to talk about it. They want to live — but desperately need someone to hear their pain and offer help to keep them safe. Don’t be afraid to ask; it shows you care and they’re not alone.
Listen to them — Allow them to express their feelings. Let them do most of the talking. They will often feel relief that someone wants to talk to them about their darkest thoughts.
Check their safety — Don’t leave them alone if you are worried. Remove any means of suicide, including weapons, medications, drugs, alcohol, even access to a car.
Decide what to do and take action — Talk about steps you can take together to keep them safe. Help them contact someone they trust, such as their GP, counsellor, psychologist, psychiatrist, minister, teacher, or anyone close to them.
Never agree to keep their suicide thoughts a secret. Learn more about suicide prevention here.
Need to talk to someone? Counselling available 24/7:
Lifeline: 13 11 14 (available 24/7) Chat to a Crisis Supporter online at www.lifeline.org.au every night.
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
Butterfly Eating Disorder Hotline: 1800 334 673
Lifeline provides confidential crisis support 24 hours a day. We encourage anyone in Australia who experiencing emotional distress or caring for someone in crisis to call, text, or chat with Lifeline.
Additional Support Services:
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling: 1800 011 046
QLife – Anonymous and free LGBTI peer support: 1800 184 527 (3pm - 12am every day)
