*Content warning*: This post contains information on suicide.

The 10^th September is World Suicide Prevention Day.

In 2020 the Office for National Statistics reported 4,912 deaths by suicide registered in England and 285 registered in Wales. ScotPHO reported 805 registered in Scotland.

By encouraging understanding, reaching out and sharing experiences, we want to give people the confidence to take action. To prevent suicide requires us to become a beacon of light to those in pain. You don’t need to have all the answers.

People are often reluctant to intervene, for many reasons, including a fear of not knowing what to say. It is important to remember, there is no specific formula.

Individuals in distress are often not looking for specific advice. Empathy, compassion, genuine concern, knowledge of resources and a desire to help are key to preventing a tragedy. Individuals who have survived a suicide attempt have much to teach us about how the words and actions of others can be important, and those who have come through an episode of severe suicidal thinking often say that they were not looking for specific advice, but that compassion and empathy from others helped to turn things around for them and point them towards recovery.

You can be the light.

If you need further support:

Stay Alive
prevent-suicide.org.uk/find-help-now/stay-alive-app/

The Stay Alive app is a suicide prevention resource for the UK, containing useful information and tools to help individuals stay safe in crisis. You can use it if you are having thoughts of suicide or if you are concerned about someone else who may be considering suicide.

Samaritans

Call 116 123 for free. 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.