Suicide awareness

The World Health Organisation estimates that approximately 1 million people die each year from suicide. 
What drives so many individuals to take their own lives? 

Suicidal feelings are complicated and can be scary and confusing. They can range from having general thoughts around not wanting to be here anymore, to making a plan about how and when someone might end their life. Often, it is less about wanting to actually die, and more about feeling hopeless, not seeing another way out, and/or wanting the pain to stop.
There is no single reason why someone may want to end their life, but there are some more common risk factors which include:

• Previous suicide attempts or self-harm
• Unemployment
• Having a long-term physical health issue
• Living alone
• Substance addiction
• Having mental health problems

Please note, that these are risk factors, just because someone may be experiencing one or more of these, it does not mean they will experience suicidal thoughts. Additionally, this list is not extensive.

It’s more important than ever that we’re open and take time to talk about our mental health and how we are doing. Suicide can be prevented and talking and reaching out is the first step to helping. Check on your friends or co-workers and ask how they are. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings, we urge you to make an emergency appointment with your GP, contact the Samaritans or contact the crisis team at your local hospital. 
It is so important that we understand suicide and the importance of suicide prevention. Therefore, we have created a 'Let's Talk About Suicide Awareness' workshop. The aim of this session is to raise awareness around suicide by giving some information and insight. Looking at the importance around; suicide prevention, recognising the common signs and symptoms and learning where you can signpost anyone who may be experiencing any suicidal ideation.
To book a place please log onto the Source and visit the Your Health Safety & Wellbeing section, followed by Health interventions.

There are also a number of resources below that can help and advise us:

• MIND provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.
• Whatever you are going through, the Samaritans are there for you. Their phoneline is open 24/7. Tel: 116 123. They also provide email support and support through their app 'Samaritans self-help' app. Visit the Samaritans website for more information or visit the links below.
• Vivup Employee assistance programme. Fully confidential 24/7/365 phone line for in the moment emotional support. Tel: 0800 023 9387. They can also offer counselling (telephone or online) and online support.

• You can contact the Occupational Health & Wellbeing Unit
  Tel: 01443 494003 
  Email: OHUQueries@rctcbc.gov.uk 

For more information, guidance and signposting please visit our Source page