World Suicide Prevention Day (10 September) was set up by the International Association for Suicide Prevention and is supported by the World Health Organisation in 2003.
Suicide is a topic that still suffers from stigma and taboo and some people will immediately feel uncomfortable at its mention. However, with over 800 000 deaths by it each year, equating to one every forty seconds, it’s a matter that clearly does need more discussion.
For someone to talk to you can contact The Samaritans on a free phone number of 116 123. They are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you feel things are getting too much please give them a call. If you know other people who may be having a particularly tough time then consider directing them there.
The local mental health Crisis Team, part of Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, can be contacted on 0303 123 1145. The team operates 24 hours a day 7 days a week. However, the crisis team does not provide an ’emergency’ service such as a 999 response.
There are further support networks for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts:
MIND – How to cope with suicidal feelings
and for those who have been affected by someone else’s suicide:
Your GP is also there to listen and help find services to support you.
