We’re here to support you
Supporting someone you care about
Looking after someone you care about can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re worried they might be at risk of suicide.
A trained Lifeline Crisis Supporter can talk things through with you, offer guidance, and help you support your loved one safely. You don’t need to wait until things feel critical. Sometimes, just reaching out and having a conversation can make all the difference. If you’re not ready to connect directly, our resources and guides can also help you understand how to support someone while taking care of yourself.
We’re here for you
Whether you’re worried about a friend, a partner, a colleague, or someone else in your life, you don’t need to carry it alone. Support is available.
Need urgent help?
In an emergency call Triple Zero 000
Know the warning signs
When should I check in?
If someone you know seems out of sorts, withdrawn or not themselves, it might be time to check in. These conversations may feel daunting, but they could be life-changing.
Some signs to look out for
It can sometimes be hard to tell when someone is struggling, but there are signs that may show they’re not coping. These might be changes in mood, behaviour, or the way they interact with others:
- Withdrawing from people and usual activities
- Restlessness, agitation, or emotional outbursts
- Talking about feeling hopeless, worthless or like a burden
- Not responding to calls, messages, or seeming distant
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Giving away belongings or saying goodbye
- Sudden, significant mood changes
- Expressing thoughts about not being around anymore
Common triggers
Difficult life events can affect people in different ways. Some things that might increase someone’s risk of emotional distress or suicidal thoughts include:
- Chronic physical illness or pain
- Mental health challenges
- Relationship or family breakdown
- Job loss or academic pressure
- Trauma, including childhood trauma
- Loss of a loved one
- Financial hardship
- Isolation or loneliness
- Big life changes such as moving or divorce
Know someone experiencing these signs?
If someone you know is experiencing any of these, or you’re noticing changes in their behaviour, it’s okay to gently ask how they’re going.
How you can help
What to do if you’re concerned
You don’t need to be an expert to support someone. Often, the most powerful thing you can do is listen without judgment and let them know they’re not alone.
Reach out
Ask if they’re OK. Make time to listen. Let them know you care. Be gentle, open, and compassionate.
Encourage support
Encourage them to speak to someone they trust, a GP, counsellor, community leader, friend or family member. You can also help them explore local services or support groups.
Ask directly about suicide
If you’re worried, ask: “Are you having thoughts of suicide?”. Asking directly won’t put the idea in their head. In fact, it shows you’re taking them seriously and that you’re willing to talk about it.
Three tips to prevent suicide
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.
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.
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.
Caring for someone in distress can take a toll on your own wellbeing
It’s important to check in with yourself too. If you’re struggling, you deserve support as well. Call Lifeline WA on 13 11 14 any time. Or reach out to Carers WA on 1800 242 636 for free counselling and support.
Support at Your Own Pace
Resources
If you’re not ready to talk, you can still access a range of resources, tools, and information to help you cope and support your wellbeing at your own pace
How you can help
Volunteer
Your time can help us save lives. Explore volunteering opportunities with Lifeline WA.
Fundraise
Create your own fundraising page or download our fundraising kit.
Partnerships
We rely on the generosity of our philanthropic and corporate partners to sustain our life-saving work.
Donate today
Support our 24/7 crisis services to allow us to be there for West Australians in need.