What to do when it feels like it's all gone wrong

ReachOut Content Team
Published 15 September 2023

This article discusses suicide. If you feel like you’re going to act on suicidal thoughts, call 000 if you live in Australia. A number of crisis support services are also there for you – have a look at our urgent help page.

Some days life can be really tough, whether you’re depressed, anxious or just having a really tough time, it’s hard to know where to turn to get help. Here are some practical steps to take when everything goes wrong.

Read the transcript.

It can be really tough to do, but step away from your fear or shame, or the thoughts telling you nothing will help, and talk to someone you know, or can trust.

If you’re in a tough place right now, here are some tips:

  • talk to someone you feel like you can trust, whether they’re a friend, family member, teacher, sports coach or religious leader

  • tell them how you’re feeling and if you’re feeling suicidal, be clear about it so they can help you

  • remember that suicidal thoughts are only thoughts, and that nearly everyone who experiences these thoughts eventually recovers from them

  • think in the short term– just postpone your decision to die for a week, a day or even until tomorrow morning

  • if you feel alone, helplines like Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) and 13YARN (13 92 76; for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) are there to support you.

What can I do now?

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              Aboriginal flagTorres Strait islander flagRainbow flagAustralian flag

              We acknowledge the traditional owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and to Elders past and present. We recognise connection to Country as integral to health and wellbeing.

              We acknowledge people with lived experience of mental ill-health and recovery and the experience of people who have been carers, families, or supporters.

              ReachOut values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.

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