On World Suicide Prevention, a charity is urging people to check on those who they think may be suicidal as a mental health expert explains six key ways to do so
A mental health professional has shared key ways you can help those who are struggling ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day.
Every year on September 10, organisations around the world come together to raise awareness for World Suicide Prevention Day. This year, Samaritans, a charity dedicated towards preventing suicide is urging those who think someone may be suicidal to “take action, interrupt their thoughts and show them you care.”
According to the government, someone in the UK or Ireland dies by suicide every 90 minutes. Meanwhile, a study found that one in four adults has had suicidal thoughts.
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Joseph Conway, BACP registered psychotherapist and mental health trainer at Vita Health Group says: “Sadly there is still a widespread stigma surrounding suicide, which can lead to people feeling helpless about how to support, or even avoiding those who are struggling altogether.
“Taking the time to make contact with, and listen to someone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts and feelings, could help to save a life.”
Joseph explains: “It can be incredibly scary to feel suicidal or have suicidal thoughts. It’s really important to understand that although suicidal thoughts are very real, they are not permanent – like all thoughts and feelings they will pass.”
So, what should you do if you’re concerned about a friend, loved one, or someone you know? Joseph has shared six important ways to help someone who’s told you they’re suicidal, or who you think could be suicidal:
Empathise and be open to listening
One key way to show support is by making sure you listen to those who are vulnerable. Joseph suggests: “You could say, ‘I can’t imagine how painful this is for you, but I would like to try to understand.’”
Listen without judgement
Of course, you should also take care to be open-minded and let them share their feelings honestly. “Do not blame or criticise the person for how they are feeling,” Joseph says.
Repeat what they say to you, back to them
Joseph advises: “Repeating the information they give you can help to ensure that firstly, you have understood them properly, and secondly, that they know you’re truly listening to them.”
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Reassure them they are not alone
Sometimes, simply being there can make the world of a difference. Joseph says: “Let them know that they don’t have to face this by themselves. A simple, honest reassurance like, ‘I’m here with you right now,’ can make a huge difference in breaking the feeling of isolation.”
Encourage small steps
When people are struggling mentally, even small tasks can feel impossible. To help, Joseph says: “Support them to take things one step at a time. Even something as simple as helping them through the next hour can feel more manageable than focusing on the bigger picture.”
Always guide them towards professional support
Importantly, if someone is struggling, make sure to help them get the professional support they need. “Remind them there is always help available, whether through their GP, a counsellor, or a charity like Samaritans,” Joseph says. “And remember: confidentiality does not apply to suicide. Even if you’ve been sworn to secrecy, it’s always better to risk that relationship than to risk losing a life.”
What should you do do in a crisis?
Joseph advises: “If someone you care about is experiencing an emotional or mental health crisis and needs immediate attention, reach out to their GP out-of-hours service, or call the NHS on 111. If you fear for someone’s safety, guide them to A&E or dial 999.”
For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
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