Support for carers
Do you need help now? Contact the Mental Health Carer and Information Support Line on 1300 554 660.
If you're supporting a friend or family member who is experiencing or has experienced suicidal distress, this role can take a toll on your own mental health and wellbeing. Some important things to remember:
- you are not alone and you can get through this
- one of the most important things you can do for a person who has attempted suicide is to simply let them know that you love and care about them and will support them
- by looking after yourself, you are better able to provide support to others. (Source: BeyondBlue's Guiding Their Way Back resource)
Below are some resources to help you find information and support:
- ARAFMI Illawarra provides local support and information for carers on their website
- BeyondBlue’s Guiding their way back resource provides information on how to support someone who has attempted suicide
- Carer Gateway is an online hub with help and advice for carers
- Carers NSW is a state-based organisation for carers with practical, financial, and emotional support options
- Roses in the Ocean’s ‘Caring for someone who is suicidal’ page acknowledges the importance of people with lived experience of caring for someone who is suicidal
- Sane Australia provides online resources for families and carers