Help a Mate

1. Identify if they are in danger.
   
   If you are concerned about your friend and they have mentioned plans for suicide, dial 000 and get in contact with the psychiatric emergency. Stay with them and remove any objects they could use to harm themselves.
   
   Here are some suicidal signs to look out for.
   Sudden calmness, withdrawal, recent life crisis, making preparations, and talking about suicide are all potential danger signs.
   
   

2. Listen to them
   There’s nothing worse than conversations where people try to solve your problems without listening to what you have to say. Practice active listening and really be there for them. Sit intently in their presence, rather than offering a silver bullet solution.

   
   ”Active listening refers to a pattern of listening that keeps you engaged with your conversation partner in a positive way. It is the process of listening attentively while someone else speaks, paraphrasing and reflecting back on what is said, and withholding judgment and advice.”
   
   

3. Kind Gestures
   Having a mental illness is not a sign of brokenness. Your friend is really going to appreciate it if you keep inviting them to things. If you keep them in your plans, it helps them realise that you people still want them in their life. Offer them to go to the beach, a walk, or even out for a coffee. They will appreciate the gesture regardless of their acceptance.
   
   Another option is to send them things that remind you of them. Often we can self isolate ourselves when we are feeling withdrawn. Providing a gift or careful message to someone in the space allows your positive intention to manifest in a world where their interactions have been significantly reduced.

   
   

4. Encourage them to seek help

   There are a whole bunch of options for someone to seek mental health assistance. Encourage them that just like your physical health, it’s perfectly normal to seek help when your mental health doesn’t feel right.
   

   • A great place to start is their GP or a local psychologist

   • Contact a counselor or employee assistance program, family member, or friend.

   • Contact a specialist helpline here.

   • Share your personal experiences with your mental health appointments and let them know you can tag along if they are feeling nervous.

     
     

5. Ask them how you can help

Sometimes we overlook the obvious solutions. Acknowledging that and asking, “How can I support you?” or “What can I do to help?” expresses a desire to assist without presuming you know what is best for them.

This is going to give you a strong anchor point in the assessment of their immediate needs.