Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus

Emergency Plan

Suicide

Suicide is a major cause of death among University students. It can be prevented in many cases. Danger signs that someone may be considering suicide include:

• a previous suicide attempt;
• verbal threats;
• changes in behaviour (e.g. withdrawal);
• unusual purchases (weapon or rope);
• giving away personal possessions;
• signs of depression (anxiety, restlessness);
• problems in university (drop in grades, emotional outbursts);
• themes of death (artwork, assignments).

A person who is considering suicide needs to know that others care.

DO:

• be direct (talk openly);
• be a good listener (don't make judgments);
• make time available;
• get help (act quickly).

DON'T:

• sidestep the issue;
• keep what you know a secret;
• leave the person alone;
• feel responsible for saving the person (you cannot control other's decisions).