A collage of mental health words for Suicide Awareness.

Suicide Awareness

Through their current storyline the topic of Male Suicide has recently been highlighted by Coronation Street. In the UK and Republic of Ireland more than 6,000 people take their life each year, this means on average there is one death by suicide every two hours, with many more people thought to attempt suicide each day. Currently in the UK suicide is the leading cause of death among young people aged 20 – 34. However suicidal feelings can affect anyone of any age, gender or background, at any time.

 

In March, Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) launched their Project84 by positioning 84 sculptures on the roof of the ITV Studios Tower, each representing a life lost to suicide. In the UK approximately 84 men take their life every week, these remain largely unseen other than by the family and friends they leave behind. Project84 aims to raise awareness, strive for change, and encourage individuals to start a conversation about suicide. 

 

Suicidal feelings can range from being preoccupied by thoughts pertaining to ending one’s life; or feeling that others would be better off without you; thinking about methods of suicide; or making clear plans to take your own life. Everyone experiences suicidal feelings in a way unique to them, you may feel scared or confused by your feelings, you may not understand why you feel this way, or feel like you’ll never be happy or hopeful again. Suicidal thoughts aren’t permanent however – things can improve through support. 

 

Initially, it may feel difficult to open up to people, you may feel unsure of who to tell or concerned that they won’t understand or feel fearful of being judged. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone, there is support out there and you deserve to be supported. 

 

Where can I access support?

  • If you are experiencing suicidal feelings going to your GP is a good starting point, they can support you to access talking therapies or refer you to specialist services, such as a community mental health team.   

  • If you don’t feel you can keep yourself safe right now, seek immediate help by calling 999.

  • Go to any hospital A&E department.

  • Contact The Samaritans on Freephone 116 123, they’re open 24 hours and are there to listen.

  • Counselling:

Talking about your feelings in a safe, confidential, non-judgemental, and impartial therapeutic space can help you to explore and address your suicidal feelings and those areas of life currently causing you distress. At TOG Mind we offer counselling to all residents of Tameside and Glossop aged 16 and over. Counselling is a series of 50 minute one to one sessions which take place at the same time each week. For more information please visit our website at https://www.togmind.org/ or call us on 0161 330 9223.

  • Peer Support:

Peer support groups offer an opportunity to connect with others who’ve had similar experiences, share your experiences, learn and develop a better understanding of yourself and others. The Anthony Seddon Foundation run several peer support groups aimed at supporting individuals to manage their mental health. For more information visit: https://tasfund.org.uk/

 

News Date: 
Tuesday, 29 May 2018

I need help now!