It’s not always easy to tell when someone might need support, especially if they’re keeping their feelings to themselves.
Even if the person hasn’t shared their struggles openly, subtle changes in behaviour or mood can indicate they’re having a hard time. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to have a conversation, the common signs listed here can help you decide.
Pulling away from friends, family or social activities
They might stop joining in on things they usually enjoy, or seem distant and hard to reach. It could be their way of coping, or a sign they’re feeling overwhelmed or low.
Difficulty falling asleep, sleeping too much, or waking up still feeling tired
Changes in sleep can be a sign someone’s not doing well. They might have trouble falling asleep, sleep much more than usual, or wake up still feeling exhausted.
Noticeable changes in eating habits or weight
You might notice they’re eating a lot more or less than usual, or their weight has changed. Sometimes, our eating habits shift when we’re going through a tough time.
Frequent headaches, stomach issues, or other unexplained illnesses
When someone isn’t feeling okay emotionally, it can show up in their body. Ongoing aches, pains, or sickness with no clear cause can be a sign they’re struggling.
Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things
They might seem forgetful, distracted, or unsure about things they’d normally manage easily. Stress and emotional pain can make it hard to think clearly.
Using alcohol or drugs more often to cope
If they’re drinking or using drugs more than usual, it might be their way of trying to escape or numb difficult feelings. This can be a sign they need extra support.
If you’re in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).
For more detailed information, see our 'For friends and family' section within the 'Suicide' topic here.
If you think someone might be suicidal, ask them directly "Are you thinking about suicide?".
It shows you care and will actually decrease their risk because it shows someone is willing to talk about it. Make sure you ask directly.
If they say 'yes', they are suicidal, listen to them and allow them to express how they are feeling.
Don’t leave them alone. Stay with them or get someone else reliable to stay with them.
Get them appropriate help. Call a crisis line like Lifeline 13 11 14 or Triple Zero (000) if life is in danger. If you can get in straight away, visit a GP or psychologist.
Offer to make the appointment and accompany them if it is their wish. Even if the danger is not immediate they may need longer-term support for the issues that led to them feeling this way.
Supporting someone else can sometimes be so much, we struggle to look after ourselves along the way. Caring for someone can be emotionally draining, especially if you're feeling overwhelmed, finding it hard to keep healthy boundaries, or don't know where to turn for support.
Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. There are dedicated services and resources designed to support you as you care for someone else, whether you're a parent, partner, friend or sibling.
Explore what feels right for you. Small steps can make a big difference.
Deciding to reach out to someone you’re worried about is a brave and caring choice, and one that could make a life-changing difference. We've developed a practical framework to make it easier to approach a conversation with confidence and compassion.
Confidential one-to-one support with a trained Lifeline crisis supporter.
If life is in danger, call Triple Zero (000)
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