Suicide prevention

Suicide is not inevitable, and is never the only option

Most people have had a crisis, where stress feels overwhelming. And yet, the crisis has passed. Most people who kill themselves do not want to die, but cannot see any other way out. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.

The reasons why someone takes their own life are usually complex layers that build up, perhaps over many years, making someone want to escape. The sooner we get through the stigma surrounding mental health and start the conversation, the less likely people are going to get to the stage that they think they have no options left.

There are lots of ways we might become concerned about someone. They may not be looking after themselves, they might be tearful, quiet or no longer interested in things they used to enjoy. Perhaps they are drinking more alcohol, not sleeping or have lost their appetite. They may say they are 'at their wit's end', 'they can't go on', or they 'feel like a burden'. In these circumstances, asking someone if they are considering suicide will not put the thought in their head. Using the word does not increase their risk, but does avoid confusion.

If you're worried about someone, speak to them, listen, act. Don't ignore those alarm bells.