Contributor: Angelique Foran
Director and Clinical Psychologist, Supported Minds Psychology
Posted: Oct 01 2025
Each year in Australia, more than 3,000 people lose their lives to suicide.1 That’s nine Australians every single day - more than the number of people who die on our roads annually. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the suicide rate is tragically twice as high, and for young people, suicide is the leading cause of death.
These statistics are heartbreaking, but they also remind us how important it is to talk about suicide and take action to support those who may be struggling.
How You Can Help Someone at Risk
If you’re concerned that someone you know may be thinking about suicide, there are steps you can take to help:
- Stay with them: If possible, stay with the person or arrange for someone else to be with them until they can see a healthcare professional.
- Remove access to harmful items: This includes dangerous objects, alcohol, and drugs.
- Seek immediate help: Call 000, visit a local hospital emergency department, or contact a mental health service.
Recognising the signs
People at risk of suicide may show certain signs or symptoms. These can include:
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Seeming moody, depressed, or frustrated
- Neglecting self-care or personal responsibilities
- Engaging in reckless or risky behaviour
- Appearing distracted or introverted
- Experiencing disturbed sleep or insomnia
- Increasing or starting to use drugs or alcohol
- Giving away treasured belongings or making arrangements for dependents or pets
They may also talk about feeling hopeless, worthless, or alone, or they might mention thoughts of death or wanting to die.
Understanding suicidal thoughts
Angelique Foran, Director and Clinical Psychologist at Supported Minds Psychology, explains that suicidal thoughts often arise when someone feels trapped in their pain or unable to see a way out of their current situation.
“For many people, these thoughts come from a place of deep despair,” Angelique says. “It’s not about wanting to die - it’s about wanting the pain to stop. That’s why it’s so important to connect with others, share your experiences, and seek support. You don’t have to face this alone.”
When to seek professional support
If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts, it’s crucial to seek help and take steps to ensure your safety. Angelique emphasizes the importance of reaching out:
“Suicidal thoughts can feel overwhelming and isolating, but you don’t have to act on them. Give yourself time to get support and move through this difficult period. Talking to someone—a trusted friend, family member, or professional—can make a world of difference. You are not alone, and there is help available.”
If you’re struggling, consider:
- Making an appointment with your GP: They can help you create a Mental Health Plan and connect you with a mental health professional.
- Speaking with a school counsellor, teacher, or Employee Assistance Program: These resources can provide immediate support.
- Creating a safety plan: Identify steps you can take to stay safe and people you can reach out to in times of crisis.
- Practising self-care: Find activities that help you feel calm and supported, whether it’s spending time in nature, journaling, or connecting with loved ones.
Angelique also encourages people to check in on those around them: “If you know someone who may be struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out. Ask them how they’re feeling, and if they’re not okay, help them find the support they need. Sometimes, just being there and listening can make all the difference.”
Resources and information
If you or someone you know needs help, there are many resources available:
- Lifeline (13 11 14): Lifeline’s crisis support line is available 24/7, with a call received every 30 seconds. Their trained Crisis Supporters are ready to listen and provide support.
- Suicide Call Back Service: Offers 24/7 telephone and online counselling for people affected by suicide.
- ReachOut: Provides information and resources on suicide prevention, particularly for young people.
- Beyond Blue: Offers support, advice, and action to assist in suicide prevention, along with online forums for sharing experiences.
You are not alone
At Supported Minds Psychology, Angelique and her team are here to provide compassionate, evidence-based support for anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health challenges. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, and it’s okay to not be okay.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out to a trusted professional or contact one of the resources listed above. Together, we can make a difference.
To support the mental health of our members and better enable timely support, Health Partners have partnered with Supported Minds Psychology to provide priority access to exclusively reserved appointments for all Health Partners members.
The Supported Minds practice is conveniently located in Health Partners' current health hub at 101 Pirie Street Adelaide, and offers in-person and telehealth appointments.
Members save $25 on individual session rates, some exclusions apply. Call Supported Minds Psychology for a quote on 08 7081 5855.
Reaching out can make all the difference.
In support of Mental Health Awareness month, we’ve teamed up with local mental health advocates, Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation, to create ‘Choose your check-in’ – a free guide to help you connect with someone you care about, and navigate meaningful conversations that could save a life.
Posted: Oct 01 2025
Disclaimer
The information contained here is of a general nature and does not take into account your personal medical situation. The information is not a substitute for independent professional medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or used for therapeutic purposes. Should you require specific medical information, please seek advice from your healthcare practitioner. Health Partners does not accept any liability for any injury, loss or damage incurred by use of or reliance on the information provided.
While we have prepared the information carefully, we can’t guarantee that it is accurate, complete or up-to-date. And while we may mention goods or services provided by others, we aren’t specifically endorsing them and can’t accept responsibility for them.
© Copyright Health Partners. 2025 All Rights Reserved.
Health Partners is committed to providing quality and affordable health care, and we value our members and our obligation to protect your privacy. As part of our responsibility in protecting your privacy, from time to time we review our policies to ensure we are meeting our obligations. We have recently made some updates to our Privacy Policy. Please click here to view the Health Partners Privacy Policy.
© Copyright Health Partners. 2025 All Rights Reserved.
Health Partners is committed to providing quality and affordable health care, and we value our members and our obligation to protect your privacy. As part of our responsibility in protecting your privacy, from time to time we review our policies to ensure we are meeting our obligations. We have recently made some updates to our Privacy Policy. Please click here to view the Health Partners Privacy Policy.