Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviours

Suicidal Thoughts and Warning Signs

If you are having thoughts about suicide there could also be some behavioural and/or physical changes telling you something isn’t right.

The main reasons people give for attempting suicide are:

  • Needing to escape or relieve unmanageable thoughts and emotions. The person wants relief from unbearable emotional pain, feels their situation is hopeless, feels worthless and believes that other people would be better off without them.
  • Desire to communicate with or influence another individual. The person wants to communicate how they feel to other people, change how other people treat them or get help.

People are at greater risk of suicide if they have:

  • A mental illness
  • Attempted suicide or harmed themselves in the past
  • Have been recently exposed to suicide by someone else
  • Had bad things happen recently, particularly with relationships or their health
  • Suicide is more common in certain groups, including males, indigenous people, the unemployed, prisoners and LGBTIQ people
  • Poor physical health and disabilities
  • Have been physically or sexually abused as a child

It might be subtle, but it’s likely that you notice a number of signs rather than just one or two. Remember that everyone is different and respond differently to these thoughts and feelings.

Non-verbal indicators may include:

  • Social withdrawal
  • Persistent drop in mood
  • Uncharacteristically reckless behaviour
  • Poor diet changes, rapid weight changes
  • Being distracted
  • Anger
  • Anger
  • Insomnia
  • Alcohol or drug abuse
  • Giving away sentimental or expensive pions
  • Indirect verbal expressional may include;
  • Hopelessness Failing to see a future Believing they are a burden to others Saying they feel worthless or along Talking about death or wanting to die Disinterest in maintaining personal hygiene or appearance This is not an exhaustive list. Be guided by your instincts

Get in touch – 0409 185 551

Reasons for suicidal feelings

The reasons that people take their own lives are often very complex.

Risk factors include:

  • Previous suicide attempts
  • History of substance abuse
  • Legal or disciplinary problems
  • Access to harmful means, such as medication or weapons
  • Ongoing exposure to bullying behaviour
  • Recent death of suicide of a family member or a close friend
  • Physical illness or disability
  • History of mental health conditions; depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD
  • Relationship problems; conflict with parents and / or romantic partners
  • Protective factors; these reduce the likelihood of suicidal behaviour, and work to improve a person’s ability to cope with difficult circumstances.

Australian Helplines

In case of crisis, please contact:

Are you ready to make a change?

You are very welcome to get in touch, for any enquiries or questions you may have, or to schedule an appointment.

Get in touch