Is someone you know in crisis?

If you are concerned that someone is at imminent danger of suicide please click below:

I’m at immediate risk and don’t think I can keep myself safe

Signs and Symptoms

If you’re worried that someone you know may be having problems affecting their mental health would you know what to look out for?

  • they may be more irritable than normal, with the smallest thing causing them to get annoyed with themselves or others around them
  • they may be spending more time alone and not want to go out and do the things they normally enjoy doing
  • they may complain of feeling tired and have disturbed sleep patterns
  • they may be skipping meals or eating more than normal
  • you may notice that they are using alcohol, drugs

What should I do?

If you are worried or concerned about someone else, talk to them about your concerns. Ask them how they are feeling and if there is anything you can do to help them. Tell them that you have noticed that they “haven’t been themselves” recently. 

The worst thing that can happen is that they will tell you to mind your own business, but at least they will see that you cared enough to ask.

Even knowing that someone else has taken the time to notice how they are feeling can be helpful in itself and may encourage them to get help for themselves.

You’ve heard the saying ‘You can bring a horse to water, but you cannot make it drink”.  Much as you might like, you cannot make anyone seek help, but encourage and direct them to services.  Ultimately it is up to them to the individual to make the call when the time is right for them, and you’ll find a directory of regional support services that you can direct them to here (https://www.mindingyourhead.info/services) . 

Finally, remember it is important that you look after your own mental health and not take on more than your feel comfortable with. Also remember that mental health problems are common and people do recover in the majority of cases.