Wednesday the 10th September is Suicide Prevention day, but those of us who work in mental health don't just talk about mental health and suicide one day a year.
At Promote Mental Health, suicide prevention training is embedded within the Mental Health First Aid Training we delivery and is also embedded in any managers training we design to meet the needs of organisations.
When someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it can be really hard for them to talk about it. They might worry about how others will react, or not know how to put their feelings into words. We often encouraging people to reach out if they are struggling, but particularly with the area of suicide, we might need to reach in.
Sometimes instead of saying it directly, people might use certain phrases that hint to how they’re feeling. These could include:
"I just want it all to end"
"I've had enough"
"I can't do this anymore"
"Everyone would be better off without me"
"I'm tired of everything"
"I don't want to be here any more"
These phrases don’t automatically mean someone is having suicidal thoughts, but they are a sign someone is struggling and need support.
If you’re ever worried, it’s OK to ask directly if they’re having any thoughts about suicide. It won’t make things worse. It could be the start of someone feeling less alone with what they’re going through. Ask them clearly and directly using a phrase such as "Are you feeling suicidal?" or "Have you been thinking about taking your life?".
The next step is to listen non-judgmentally and signpost that person for support.
Check out these resources from MHFA England on how to have a conversation 'Suicide Lets Talk' and 'For Me' support for you if you are supporting others - CLICK HERE
For suicide prevention support you can contact:
- 999 or 111 option 2 for mental health
- Samaritans 116 123
- Text SHOUT to 85258
Remember:
➡️ Someone who is struggling won't always tell you straight
➡️ They might give you an invitation to have a conversation about suicide, blink and you might miss it!
➡️ If you do notice someone is struggling - ask them directly about suicide. it will not make things worse and could lead to life saving conversation.
➡️ Remember there is a lot of support out there. Samaritans are there to listen 24/7 365 days of the year.
Hi I'm Claire 💟
Health Psychologist and Founder of Promote Mental Health
Building mentally fit workplaces, so your people can thrive
- Mental Health
- Suicide
- Suicide Prevention
- Support