A LOCAL NHS trust has produced a number of videos and a short animation to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.
The videos include tips and advice to help if you or someone you know is feeling suicidal.
North West Boroughs Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has created the videos, which feature personal experiences of losing someone to suicide, in the hope of helping others.
This year’s theme ‘working together to prevent suicide’ highlights the role we all have in preventing suicide. By simply asking someone how they are and listening without judgement, we can all help to save lives.
More than 6,000 suicides happen in the UK each year – 18 people a day. World Suicide Prevention Day, which takes place on September 10 aims to reduce this figure by focusing on connecting with others and letting people know it’s okay to talk.
Trust Engagement and Experience Co-ordinator Dennis Dewar, who shares his story of losing a friend to suicide 38 years ago, said: “Things have changed a lot since 1980 – back then it just wasn’t talked about and there was no real support or compassion.
“I’m really glad that times have moved on and people have the opportunity to talk. If you are worried about a family member or friend, let them know you’re there for them. Sometimes, just asking ‘are you okay?’ can be enough to bring someone back from feeling suicidal.”
Phil Cooper, Nurse Consultant at North West Boroughs Healthcare, also offers his advice in the video. He said: “Suicide is currently the biggest killer of men aged between 20 and 49 in the UK, but suicidal thoughts and feelings can affect anyone. If you are feeling suicidal, the best thing you can do is speak to someone you trust – whether that’s a family member, a friend or your GP.
It’s important to remember that help is available and talking to someone about how you’re feeling is an important step to getting that support and feeling better.”
You can view the videos online: www.nwbh.nhs.uk/world-suicide-prevention-day
If you are feeling suicidal, don’t suffer in silence – seek immediate help:
• Contact the Samaritans on freephone 116 123 – they’re open 24 hours and are there to listen
• Contact your GP for an emergency appointment
• Call NHS 111
Anyone affected by the suicide of someone close to them can call the Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) helpline on 0800 003 7029 or visit: www.uk-sobs.org.uk
To find out more about World Suicide Prevention Day visit: www.samaritans.org/media-centre/our-campaigns/world-suicide-prevention-day
