In this honest and supportive episode, we explore the often-taboo topics of suicidal thoughts and self-harm. You’ll hear why these thoughts can emerge, how to manage overwhelming feelings, what support looks like, and how to respond with care—whether it’s for yourself or someone you know.

Our guest, Kelsi Bartzis, shares insights from her work with students at RMIT Counselling, and Liz and Melissa offer real-world tips on managing distress, recognising warning signs, and creating space for hope and recovery.

• Understanding why suicidal thoughts and self-harm happen

• What the thoughts mean (and what they don’t)

• How to tell when it’s time to reach out

• Grounding techniques for intense emotions

• How to be there for someone in crisis

• Recovery, hope, and what healing really looks like

• The link between suicidal ideation and self-injury

• Helpful alternatives to self-harm

• Medication and therapy: how they work together

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out:

• RMIT Urgent Mental Health Support
  📞 1300 305 737 or 💬 Text 0488 884 162

• Lifeline – 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au

• Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | beyondblue.org.au

• Kids Helpline (Ages 5–25) – 1800 55 1800 | kidshelpline.com.au

If you or someone you care about is thinking about suicide, safety planning can help reduce risk and increase support.
Explore the Beyond Now Safety Planning App by Beyond Blue:
👉 beyondblue.org.au/get-support/beyondnow-suicide-safety-planning

Available on:
📱 iOS App Store
📱 Google Play Store

You don’t need to have all the answers to begin healing. You just need to know:

• You are not alone

• Your life matters

• There is hope

• You can get through this

• Support is always available

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