Resources - Suicide
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This page contains relevant information and resources for students concerned about suicide.
Suicide affects an unfortunately large number of Australians every year, and all too often people experiencing suicidal thoughts and ideation are not getting the help they need. If you are currently feeling unsafe or considering harming yourself, please contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or your local hospital immediately.
Suicide and Mental Illness
Suicidal thoughts can be common in sufferers of mental illness, and particularly in people experiencing Depression. It may be that you feel life is no longer enjoyable or that ending your life is the only way to overcome your troubles. Suicidal thoughts are very real and can be terrifying for those experiencing them, and if not addressed can have dire consequences. If you have been experiencing frequent thoughts of suicide, it is imperative that you speak with a counsellor, or another health professional about these thoughts as soon as possible, as there is always a better solution to suicide. Speaking with a counsellor can help you explore the reasons you are feeling suicidal and help you to develop ways of coping with the suicidal thoughts and feelings. Often suicidal thoughts can be attributed to mental illness or other issues, which can also be treated, and may in turn improve your view on life, so it is important to discuss your difficulties with a health professional. Suicide is never a good solution to any problem, no matter how great or small.
If Someone You Know is Suicidal
If you are concerned about someone you suspect is feeling suicidal, it is best to approach them about your concerns and let them know that you are there if they ever need someone to talk to. Suicide can be a very scary topic not only for those experiencing thoughts themselves, but also for those who care about these individuals, so it is important to let the person know that you are willing to discuss it. Sometimes people can feel afraid to discuss suicide, but it is important that these feelings are recognised and addressed quickly and calmly to prevent the individual from acting on those thoughts. Ignoring suicidal thoughts and behaviours will not make them go away. Having a friend or family member to call in times of crisis can be the difference between life and death.
Check out the following resources and services for more information about suicidal ideation, causes, and related treatments.
Swinburne University Services and Resources
- Swin-eCounselling Emergency Contact Numbers - Numbers to phone for assistance if you are currently suicidal or experiencing an emergency.
- Swin-eCounselling Depression Resources - For resources and information about Depression, a condition often associated with suicidal ideation.
- Swin-eCounselling Grief and Loss Resources - For resources and information about Grief and Loss as a result of suicide.
- Student Development and Counselling - For one-on-one counselling to help you deal with your suicidal thoughts and feelings as well as other contributing issues.
- Swinburne Psychology Clinic - For one-on-one, or group, counselling to help address and overcome your suicidal thoughts.
- Local Community Council Databases - Search for your local community services that offer assistance in the prevention of suicide and related conditions.
Other Suicide Prevention Services and Resources
If you are currently experiencing suicidal thoughts please contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or your local hospital, the website resources below are not intended for crisis support.
- APS: Suicide Tip Sheet - Tip Sheet for understanding and preventing suicide in young people, provided by the Australian Psychological Society.
- Lifeline - Phone 13 11 14. Access to suicide prevention treatment services and training. Note: counselling is not available through the Lifeline website.
- Richmond Fellowship of Victoria, The - Specialist Mental Health service providing psychosocial rehabilitation services to people with psychiatric disability.
- SANE - Phone 1800 18 SANE for crisis help during business hours. Website also provides an online helpline, fact sheets and some translated material.
- Suicide Helpline - Phone 1300 651 251 for confidential telephone counselling, support and referral available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, throughout Victoria for the cost of a local call.
- Suicide Prevention Australia - A non-profit, non-government organisation working as a public health advocate in suicide prevention.
- Survivors of Suicide - A dedicated web site to help those who have lost a loved one to suicide resolve their grief and pain in their own personal way.
- Youth Suicide Prevention Kit - An online version of the Youth Suicide Prevention Kit developed by the Interdepartmental Youth Suicide Prevention Committee to provide general information about suicide to secondary school students, media and the general public.