The 10th September marked World Suicide Prevention Day, a reminder of the importance of looking after ourselves and supporting those around us. Suicide is not inevitable. You can interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts. You could save a life.
We can support ourselves and our colleagues by sharing information about recognising warning signs, starting important conversations and where to find professional support.
Suicide can be prevented, and one of the most powerful ways to help is by talking openly about it. Many people experiencing suicidal thoughts feel isolated or afraid to speak up. Simply checking in with someone, listening without judgement and encouraging them to seek support can make a real difference.
Interrupting suicidal thoughts
Research from Samaritans found that 60% of people with lived experience of suicide said their suicidal thoughts had been interrupted by someone close to them, such as a friend or family member. This highlights the vital role we can all play in supporting one another.
If you’re concerned
While there is no single sign that someone is struggling, changes in behaviour, withdrawal from others, increased anxiety, mood swings or talking about feeling hopeless can all be indicators that someone may need support. If you’re concerned about someone, trust your instincts and reach out. Asking someone directly how they are feeling will not put ideas into their head. In fact, it can provide a valuable opportunity for them to talk.
Remember, you do not need to have all the answers. Being willing to listen, showing compassion and helping someone access professional support can have a significant impact.
- Read the Conversation Guide from Mental Health UK – Talking about Suicide
- Get some Listening Tips from the Samaritans – Top Tips for becoming a better listener
- How to interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts – from people with lived experience of suicide https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/if-youre-worried-about-someone-else/how-to-interrupt-someones-suicidal-thoughts-guide/
- What to say to someone who may be at risk of suicide – https://mentalhealth-uk.org/suicide/#section-7
Available support
If you or someone you know is struggling, there are a range of confidential support services available, including Samaritans, SHOUT, CALM, NHS Mental Health Crisis Services and Suicide Prevention UK.
- This guide – Suicidal thoughts and How to cope may help you if you are dealing with suicidal thoughts, feelings, or intentions. It has ideas you can try to help you. It explains how you can stay safe, and how you can get support.
Sources of phone, text and online support – available 24/7
For urgent support please contact your GP and ask for an emergency appointment. Alternatively call the NHS 111 and ask for urgent support.
- Samaritans: Call 116 123 – https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
- NHS Mental Health Crisis Services: Available locally via NHS Call 111.
- SHOUT – https://giveusashout.org/ text SHOUT to 85252 (available 24/7). A free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging service for anyone who is struggling to cope.
- Suicide Prevention UK – Helpline Call 0800 5870800 – https://spuk.org.uk/ – offering a safe haven for anyone who needs someone to talk to.
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – call 0800 58 58 58 (daily, 5pm to midnight) https://www.thecalmzone.net/what-we-do. Nationwide helpline and chat service. Life-saving services, information and advice to help anyone struggling with life.
We have shared a range of downloadable posters, guides, videos and QR-code resources that can be shared across sites, offices and wellbeing boards.
Please take a few minutes to access, download and share the campaign materials on workplace noticeboards, screens and wellbeing areas. View all Suicide Awareness and Prevention resources here:
Suicide Awareness & Prevention Resources
Together, by listening, talking and supporting one another, we can help break down stigma and ensure that nobody feels they have to face difficult times alone.