Topic Tuesday// Suicide: You Can Talk About It// Tuesday 31st October 2023 5:30-7PM AEDT

[amber22]

That's such a great question. Like any topic that hits close to home for you or may feel vulnerable, it is really important to have the frank discussion and let them know that that's how you're feeling but to ensure that you feel safe with the people that you are telling. And to make sure that the people that you do tell don't make you feel invalidated or try to tell you that what you are feeling is wrong. Whatever you are feeling, you are feeling, and it is completely okay.

It can be really good to let others know exactly how you're feeling (even if the words do come across confronting in the moment) it's always best to try explain exactly how you're feeling (emotion-wise). @chibam 

[lemlem678]

What might help you the most when talking about suicide?

Having someone willing to "sit in the dark" with me. That they don't necessarily try to solve the issue because they can't they show they hear me, see me, understand me and can be compassionate with me. 
Solutions can be good if they definitely will help but most of the time there are not simple solutions. And people want to feel connected and witnessed in their pain without being made to feel that their emotions are too big, dramatic or wrong.

[amber22]

It is totally okay to share whatever you feel like you want to, but you're always welcome to disclose anything, just as long as we know (as moderators) if you are safe or not. Because we care ❤️Sometimes you may feel like sharing and sometimes you may not, and both are completely okay, but please know we are always here to listen. @Captain24 

[chibam]

What might help you the most when talking about suicide?

The belief that they might actually listen to my problems and be genuinely interested in solving them, rather then just standing around and looking down their nose at me.

[Captain24]

There have been times recently when I have needed to talk. But I feel like it’s not permitted. @amber22. This is off topic though. Sorry. 

[Snowie]

Saying I want to k**l myself doesn't mean I am going to do it. It could mean that things are really bad at that stage. People can't deal with those words. Yes I know it is a lot for them to deal with, but the problem is is finding someone you can talk too about it. Even my supports sometimes don't want to hear it.

[TideisTurning]

Our next question for @Snowdragon: As a professional, how might you go about exploring suicidality after ‘safety for now’ has been established?  

For the community: What would you like support people and/or others to know about experiences of suicidality? @lemlem678 @chibam @Captain24 @Snowie @Shaz51 

[Snowdragon]

It is important to ask about a person’s story. Try and find out what is going on that has made them feel distressed, overwhelmed etc. 

Suicide is a complex issue and cannot be explained by any single cause or event. Most often, several risk factors contribute to a person’s vulnerability to suicide. These risk factors will impact each person differently, and what constitutes a risk factor for one person may not be the same for someone else. I always refer to a safety plan or create one if needed and establish who might be a trusted support person for them. 

[Captain24]

I get it @Snowie I get it so much. It’s just like you have to struggle through it on your own.

[amber22]

We always want you to reach out, as long as it is safe and we know how you are feeling! We really do always want you to be okay and we are here just for that reason (to help in those times) @Captain24 

You're always welcome to email us as well if you aren't sure about posting on the forums and want to check 🙂