Suicide Prevention Day – Tuesday 10 September

World Suicide Prevention Day is hosted on 10 September each year by the International Association for Suicide Prevention and provides the opportunity for people, across the globe, to raise awareness of suicide and suicide prevention.

This year, the theme is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”. The aim is to ‘shift from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support’. This is why we are encouraging everyone to start the conversation.

Daran Bailey, our Wellness and Resilience Programme Lead and qualified Psychotherapist shares some top tips to supporting someone and some links to some amazing resources that could help save a life.

-        Listen without judgement

Give them a safe space to express their feelings without fear of judgment or criticism. Let them know it’s ok to feel what they are feeling and that you’re there to listen.

-        Express empathy and concern

Show genuine concern and empathy. Say things like “I’m here for you”, or “I can see that you’re hurting”, to validate their feelings, tell them they are not alone.

-        Avoid minimising their feelings

Don’t dismiss or downplay their emotions by saying things like “It’s not that bad”, or “You’ll get over it”, such responses can make them feel more isolated.

-        Encourage professional help

Gently suggest that they speak to a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counsellor. Emotionally asking for help can be overwhelming so offer to help them find someone, and even accompany them to appointments if they feel comfortable.

Visit the NHS website to find local psychological therapy services or search for a private therapist on BACP.

-        Create a safety plan together

Work with them to develop a safety plan that includes warning signs, coping strategies and emergency contacts. Knowing there’s a plan in place can provide some reassurance.

The Samaritans offer guidance on creating a safety plan and can provide support in a crisis.

-        Remove potential means of harm

If possible, and safe to do so, remove any objects or substances that could be used for self-harm from their environment. This could be medications, or anything else that could pose a danger.

-        Stay connected

Check in on them regularly, even if it’s just a quick message or call. Let them know you’re thinking about them and are available if they need to talk.

-        Encourage self-care and healthy habits

Gently encourage activities that promote physical and mental wellbeing, like exercise, proper sleep and balanced nutrition. Offer to join them in these activities to make them feel supported.

-        Educate yourself

Learn about mental health and suicide. Understanding more about what someone may be going through can help you provide better support and recognise warning signs.

• Mind: Provides extensive information on mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts, and offers guidance on how to support someone in distress.
• Rethink Mental Illness: Offers information on mental health conditions and practical advice on supporting someone who is suicidal.
• Samaritans: A charity that provides confidential emotional support and resources for those at risk of suicide, as well as advice for those supporting them.

-        Know when to seek emergency help

If you or someone is in immediate danger, don’t hesitate to contact emergency services (by calling 999) or take them to the nearest A&E department. It’s better to act quickly in such situations, even if it feels difficult.

The NHS 11 service is available for non-emergency advice, or you can call Samaritans on 116 123 for immediate support.

-        Bonus: take care of yourself

Supporting someone with suicidal thoughts is emotionally taxing. Make sure you also have a support system in place, whether it’s friends, family, or a therapist, to help you manage your own emotions and maintain your wellbeing.

The Mental Health Foundation offers resources on self-care and maintaining your own mental health while supporting someone else.

These strategies, coupled with the UK-specific resources, will help you provide informed and compassionate support to someone during a challenging time.

Never be afraid to ask someone openly about suicide, evidence from survivors tells us that asking the question can open a dialogue and save a life.