Supporting someone else
When someone you care about is struggling, it can be hard to know what to say or do. You do not need to have all the answers. A simple check-in, a calm conversation and helping them find the right support can make a real difference.
If you are worried about someone’s immediate safety, call 000. If the situation is urgent but not immediately life-threatening, contact Access Mental Health on 1800 332 388 for mental health support in Tasmania.
Signs someone may need support
- They are withdrawing from family, friends, work, study or activities they usually enjoy.
- They seem more sad, anxious, angry, overwhelmed or hopeless than usual.
- Their sleep, appetite or energy levels have changed.
- They are finding it hard to manage everyday tasks or make decisions.
- They are using alcohol or other drugs more than usual.
- They are talking about feeling like a burden, feeling trapped or not seeing a way forward.
- They are taking risks or behaving in a way that feels out of character.
Starting the conversation
You do not need the perfect words. Choose a quiet moment, speak gently and let them know you have noticed a change because you care.
“I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately. Do you want to talk about what’s been happening?”
“I’m here for you. You do not have to work through this on your own.”
“Would it help if we looked at some support options together?”
“Do you feel safe right now?”
Try to listen without judgement, avoid rushing to fix the problem, and take what they say seriously. If they are open to help, you could offer to sit with them while they call a service, help them book a GP appointment, or look through support options with them.
Suicide warning signs
If someone talks about suicide, self-harm or not wanting to be here, it’s important to take this seriously. This may include saying they want to die, that they have no reason to live, that others would be better off without them, or that they have a plan to harm themselves. Other warning signs can include suddenly saying goodbye or giving away belongings in a way that feels unusual.
If you are worried they may act on these thoughts, call 000 or take them to the nearest emergency department. So long as it is safe for you to stay with them, do not leave them alone while you seek urgent help.
Encouraging help-seeking
Getting help can feel overwhelming, especially when someone is already distressed. You can help by making the next step feel smaller and easier.
- Encourage or help them to book an appointment with their GP.
- Help them access support through St Lukes’ partnership with Talked.
- Suggest asking their GP about a Mental Health Treatment Plan.
- Offer to help them contact a psychologist, counsellor, helpline or mental health service.
- Use our Health Navigation service to help find services and supports that may suit their needs, location and situation.
- Encourage them to involve a trusted family member, friend, carer or support person.
Need help with choosing the right support?
Our Health Navigators are here to listen to your needs, provide you with information*, and connect you with services and support that can help you on your health and wellbeing journey. And the best news is it's completely free for every Tasmanian, member or not.
*All information provided through health navigation is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional.
Family and Carer Supports
Supporting someone else can be meaningful, but it can also be stressful and emotionally tiring. Family members, friends and carers may need support too. These services and resources may help you understand what is happening, look after your own wellbeing and connect with others who have similar experiences.
Mental Health Families and Friends Tasmania
A Tasmanian service for families, friends and carers supporting someone experiencing mental ill-health. They can provide information, education, advocacy and connection with others who understand the caring role.
Lived experience supports
Lived experience support can connect you with people who understand mental health challenges, caring responsibilities or navigating the mental health system from personal experience.
Looking after yourself as a support person
You are not expected to manage everything on your own. Set realistic expectations about what you can do, keep your own support network involved, take breaks when you need to, and seek professional advice if you are unsure what to do.