Ua tata lali lapopo’a. Beat the big drums.
There are times when we need to “beat the big drums” as the proverb above suggests and seek help from experts – either for your own thoughts about suicide, or for guiding someone else that you are worried about.
Feeling unsafe?
If you are having suicidal thoughts it’s really important to tell someone you trust and that you get the help and support you need. It’s not uncommon to have suicidal thoughts, many people have been in this situation and found a way to get through these often scary times.
In addition to the information below you can also access the Mental Health Foundation’s helpful factsheet on coping with suicidal thoughts.
Worried about someone’s safety?
If it is an emergency, don’t leave the person alone. Dial 111 and find out what to do in an emergency.
It is very worrying when someone we know or love might be at risk of suicide. One of the best things you can do is know the warning signs of suicide and realise when someone needs help.
Family, friends, colleagues and networks are always the best place to start for help. But sometimes they might not have the right expertise to help, no matter how much they care. With suicide, it is often a time to reach beyond our natural helpers and seek professional help.
1737 – Need to talk?
Free call or text 1737 anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You’ll get to talk to (or text with) a trained counsellor. This service is completely free.
Other helplines
- Depression Helpline 0800 111 757 – When you’re feeling down and would like to talk to a trained counsellor.
- Healthline 0800 611 116 – If you’re feeling unwell, sick or need advice.
- Samaritans 0800 726 666 – For callers from the lower North Island, Christchurch and West Coast. For callers from all other regions phone (04) 473 9739.
- Youthline 0800 376 633 – Free text 234 or email: talk@youthline.co.nz.
- What’s Up 0800 942 8787 – For 5-18 year olds; 1pm to 11pm.
- Kidsline 0800 54 37 54 (0800 KIDSLINE) – For children up to 14 years of age; 4pm to 6pm weekdays.
- OUTLine NZ 0800 688 5463 (0800 OUTLINE) – Support for sexuality or gender identity issues.
Your GP and mental health services
In most cases, your GP or family doctor is usually the health professional that will make the referral to mental health services for you or your loved one. However, you can also self-refer by contacting mental health services directly.
Mental health services provide experts who specialise in the area of mental health and may be able to help you more than your GP can. For more information about accessing mental health services, visit the Ministry of Health’s website.
