Most people who develop thoughts about suicide have already been diagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, or some other psychiatric disorder. As a result, they may continue to have symptoms, even when they are receiving treatment.

Often, but not always, certain symptoms or behaviors may be present or getting worse before a suicide attempt:

• Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
• Giving away belongings, taking about going away or the need to "get one's affairs in order"
• Sudden change in behavior, especially calmness after a period of anxiety
• Loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyable
• Performing self-destructive behaviors, such as drinking alcohol, using illegal drugs, or cutting
• Sudden difficulty in school or work performance
• Talking about death or suicide, or even stating the desire to harm themselves
• Talking about feeling hopeless or guilty
• Unusual changes in sleep or eating habits
• Withdrawal from friends or an unwillingness to go out anywhere

Many people who attempt suicide talk about it before making the attempt. Sometimes, simply talking to a sympathetic, nonjudgmental listener is enough to prevent the person from attempting suicide. For this reason suicide prevention centers have telephone "hotline" services. Again, do not ignore a suicide threat or attempted suicide.

As with any other type of emergency, it is best to immediately call 000. Do not leave the person alone even after phone contact with an appropriate professional has been made.

If you need immediate assistance yourself, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.