Suicide remains a topic many of us feel uncomfortable talking about but it is more common than you might think. Around the world, someone takes their own life every 40 seconds – that’s nearly one million deaths by suicide every year. Suicide is preventable. This content has been created to increase your understanding of suicide and help you explore ways that you can respond to someone who feels that they no longer want to live.
It can be upsetting and potentially triggering to read about suicide. In the event that you’re feeling vulnerable at the moment, you might want to consider reading this content at a time when you don’t feel distressed.
The information and self-help support provided is not a substitute for seeking medical assistance and advice if required. If you are having thoughts of suicide, please seek professional assistance urgently. You can contact the emergency services on 999 if you feel unable to keep yourself safe, and your local A&E will also be able to provide you with help.
Alternatively, the Samaritans are also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 116 123.
Despite the fact that nearly one million people around the world take their own lives every year, suicide remains very stigmatised and misunderstood. In this article, you’ll discover the truths behind the myths. (3/11)
Kindness isn’t rocket science, it’s rocket fuel. Compassion and kindness go a long way in helping someone to make the decision to stay alive and we all have it in us to make a real difference. Here are some ways that you can help someone who feels that they’ve run out of options. (6/11)
Knowing where to access help is a vital part of supporting someone who is feeling suicidal. Here is an overview of national orgainsations who are there to help. (9/11)
Supporting others can be emotionally demanding, especially if you’re not feeling in a good place yourself. It’s really important to put your own wellbeing first and look after yourself on a daily basis, especially if you’re helping someone who is feeling vulnerable. (10/11)
The suicide of a colleague always has a profound emotional effect in the workplace. Even if you didn’t know the individual well, you may have unanswered questions and feel very vulnerable. It’s important therefore that the employers are able to respond to the needs of all colleagues regardless of their relationship with the person who has died.
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