Suicide is a tough topic for many to confront, but it’s important not to shy away from these conversations. Mind in Harrow supports World Suicide Prevention Day by raising awareness and starting conversations about suicide and its prevention.
If you are struggling with severe depression or another mental health crisis, seek assistance by calling our helpline 020 8426 0929 (weekdays, 9am-5pm). After hours and weekends, please reach out to The Samaritans on 116123, 365 days, 24/7.
Every 40 seconds someone takes their life; almost 800,000 people a year around the world with over 75% occurring in low-and-middle-income countries. For each suicide approximately 135 people suffer intense grief or are otherwise affected, resulting in 108 million people annually being profoundly impacted by suicidal behaviours. For every suicide, 25 people make a suicide attempt and many more have serious thoughts of suicide.
The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) was established in 1960 and is the largest international association dedicated to suicide prevention and o the alleviation of the effects of suicide.
If you are interested to learn more about suicide prevention, take a look at the free, on-line training options available at Zero Suicide Alliance.
They provide a range of awareness training options, which provide a better understanding of the signs to look out for and the skills required to approach someone who is struggling, whether that be through social isolation or suicidal thoughts.
Spread the message that we can create a world where fewer people die by suicide. And, tonight at 8pm, light a candle near a window to show your support for suicide prevention, to remember a lost loved one and for the survivors of suicide.