Change The Narrative
This year, World Suicide Prevention Day, will be focusing on changing the narrative on suicide, by breaking down barriers, raising awareness and providing support for those in need.
World Suicide Prevention Day is an awareness day always observed on 10 September every year, in order to provide worldwide commitment and action to prevent suicides.
If someone feels suicidal, talking to someone who can listen and be supportive may be their first step towards getting help.
They could also talk to a professional such as a doctor or therapist, or a trained listener at a helpline or they might want to talk to a friend or a family member.
“When the weight of the world is holding you down, remember the courage to keep fighting is what got you this far.”
Is it safe for me to ask a person if they are feeling suicidal?
We know it is a challenging area and many people think it is wrong to ask a person if they are feeling suicidal but in reality this is not the case. Professionals recommend that we do ask direct questions about suicide.
If I ask the question, will it not put the idea into the persons head?
Many people worry that by talking about suicide or asking the question about suicide, this might inadvertently put the idea in someones head, or even encourage the idea of suicide. However, in reality this is not the case. Research has shown that by speaking openly about suicide this actually decreases the possibility of the person going through the act.
By asking simple and direct questions and supporting the person to open up about the way they are feeling, many people feel less isolated and even relieved that someone is there to listen and support them. The notion that a problem shared is a problem halved definitely rings true for many people who struggle with thoughts of suicide.
Local Support
The Waiting Room includes a section on Suicide Prevention organisations that provide information, can support people with thoughts of suicide, can provide training to front line staff and communities in suicide prevention skills and can provide information on services that provide support for those who may be bereaved by suicide.
With over 1000 organisations on The Waiting Room, you may also find lots of options when it comes to helping people who may feel lost and not know where to turn.
Training
If you live or work in Birmingham or Solihull and want information about Suicide Prevention Training, both face to face and online, then please email us at connect@the-waitingroom.org
Don't Forget You
When you are supporting someone else, you can find that you think a lot about their wellbeing and not about your own. It's important to take care of your own physical health and mental health, including getting enough sleep, eating regularly and doing things you enjoy or find relaxing.