Looking out for a mate - when to be concerned

Mates help each other, and are there for each other. You don't need to know the answers but sometimes just being there to listen can help.
The following list can help spot some common clues. This isn't a complete list, and many things on the list could be true for any of us at one time or other.

What's happening?

• problems with mates/relationships, family, work
• trouble with the law
• sexual or physical abuse
• suicide / violence ...someone they know, someone they heard or read about
• mental health problem / trauma
• Almost anything depending on how they feel about it

 

What’s on their mind?

• talk of escape - finding a way out, no future, guilt, being alone
• mind not on the job
• talk of suicide, death
• planning for suicide

 

What do they feel?

• desperate, depressed, feeling hopeless
• things too hard / painful
• angry / sad
• ashamed, worthless
• lonely, unsupported, cut-off

 

What are they doing?

• often upset / angry
• emotional outbursts
• reckless (e.g. on the job, driving)
• drinking a lot, drink driving
• drug misuse
• fighting, law breaking
• withdrawn
• putting affairs in order
• dropping out
• attempted self-harm or previous attempts of suicide

 

Physical changes?

• nothing's much fun
• low energy
• can't sleep properly
• little interest in food / sex
• often feeling unwell
• hurting a lot

 

 

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Reach out to a mate ...tell them what you noticed ...get help now or call Lifeline 13 11 14.