How do you talk to someone who may be suicidal?
Are you worried about someone who may have suicidal thoughts? Allowing them to talk about how they feel is extremely important. Here’s some advice on how to get the conversation started.
Read moreSupporting someone who is experiencing domestic violence
If someone has told you that they are experiencing domestic violence, you may initially feel overwhelmed and unprepared to help. But there are things you can do to support the person. Understand how you can help someone who is experiencing domestic violence.
If someone has told you that they are experiencing domestic violence, you may initially feel overwhelmed and unprepared to help. But there are things you can do to support the person.
What is domestic violence?
Domestic violence is when one person in a relationship hurts the other person (it doesn’t have to happen in the home). The violence and abuse can be physical, verbal, sexual, social, economic, spiritual and psychological.
How can I help someone who is experiencing domestic violence?
Listen
Take the time to listen to what they are saying without judging. It’s important to the person that you believe what they are saying and take their fears seriously. The person is likely experiencing feelings of shame, guilt and loneliness. By simply sharing their story, they are reducing their feelings of isolation.
It’s not their fault
You can say to the person that it is not their fault. There is no excuse for someone to be violent or abusive.
Be available
Giving your time and care is helpful. Don’t underestimate the value of your support. It can be a first step for getting help.
Specialised support
Suggest that they reach out to an organisation who has the expertise to help someone experiencing domestic violence. You can help the person research the options, arrange an appointment, go with them, and check in on them after.
Don’t force them to do something
You should not force the person into taking action. From the outside, you may think the obvious answer is to leave, but the person may find it very difficult to do so for a wide variety of reasons. When you are discussing their options, they need to feel in control of the next steps.
Create a safety plan
If they are not ready to leave the person, you can help them develop a safety plan or download the ReMinder app. You can consider the following questions: When will they activate the safety plan? Where will they go? What will they take with them? Who needs to be told when the plan is activated?
Emergency – if the person is in imminent danger, call 000.
Organisations who can help
The following organisations can provide specialist advice. Visit their websites to get more information and support.
- 1800 Respect – counselling and resources
- Kids Helpline – counselling and resources
- MensLine Australia – counselling and resources
- Relationships Australia – counselling and resources
- Respect – resources and support service information
- White Ribbon – resources and local support service information
SuicideLine Victoria counsellors can also help and are available 24/7, call 1300 651 251.
If it is an emergency, dial 000.
More from concerned about someone
Why do people think about suicide?
Trying to understand why someone is considering ending their life can be very challenging. SuicideLine Victoria looks at negative life events and mental illness that could lead to suicidal thoughts.
Read moreHow can I help someone who is depressed?
There are many ways for you to help someone with depression and make a difference in their lives.
Read moreWhat are the signs that someone may be depressed?
Learn the common signs and symptoms of depression so you can help your friend or family member get the support they need.
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