World Suicide Prevention Day: Reaching out, listening and supporting each other

Content Warning: the article contains references to mental health crisis and suicide 

[Many of you may have heard the very sad news about the closure of PAPYRUS. Drawing on lived experience, their work to prevent suicide and support young people has meant so much to so many, and the news has been deeply felt across the third sector. As a mental health charity, we feel that loss personally. 

Some of our team have received ASIST training delivered by PAPYRUS and we know how powerful it can be in giving people the confidence to have conversations that may help save a life. This is a major blow, but support is still out there through Samaritans, Shout, SANEline and others. And of course, you can always speak to a member of our team.]

The 10th September is World Suicide Prevention Day, this is an opportunity to come together, raise awareness and, most importantly, remind ourselves that a simple chat can make a big difference. 

Talking about suicide can be difficult. We might not know what to say, worry about saying the wrong thing, or making a situation worse. But, just by listening and simply showing someone that you care can be a powerful first step. 

Start with a conversation 

We can all potentially experience a mental health issue and many of us will experience times when life feels difficult or overwhelming. The reality is that there may be people around us right now who are struggling without us realising it. 

What are the signs of this? Perhaps a friend has become quieter than usual, or a colleague doesn't seem themselves. Maybe a family member has stopped doing the things they normally enjoy.  

You don't need to be an expert to reach out to someone, it’s as simple as asking ‘How are you doing?’ or ‘I've noticed you seem a little quiet - is everything OK?’. These simple questions could open the door to an important conversation. 

There’s not pressure on someone to talk – give them time. Your interest could be enough to help them. And if they do want to talk, you don't need to have all the answers. Listening without judgement, giving them time and letting them know they don't have to face things alone is perhaps more important.  

If you're concerned about someone, don't be afraid to ask directly how they are feeling. Talking about difficult thoughts doesn't cause someone to become suicidal. Talking about suicide doesn't make someone more likely to go ahead with it. In fact, giving someone the opportunity to talk can help them feel heard and supported, and more likely to be willing to seek help and support. 

What happens next? 

If someone opens up about suicide, you don’t have to handle it on your own. Keep listening, let them know they are not alone, and gently encourage them to speak to their GP, Samaritans on 116 123, or the Barnet Wellbeing Hub on 03333 449 088 - whatever feels most comfortable for them. 

Don't forget about yourself 

Supporting someone else can sometimes be challenging too. 

It's important to remember that looking after your own wellbeing isn't selfish. You can't support someone else effectively if you're completely exhausted yourself. 

Make time for the things that help you feel connected, rested and well. That could be spending time with friends or family, getting outside, exercising, taking part in an activity (we offer a number of these), or simply giving yourself permission to slow down. 

And if you are struggling, reaching out for support is just as important. Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness. It is a positive step towards looking after yourself. 

Support is available 

At Meridian Wellbeing, we believe that everyone should be able to access support that works for them. 

Our Counselling and CBT service provides a safe and confidential space to explore thoughts, feelings and experiences with trained professionals. We also offer a range of community-based activities and support through our Better Together Wellbeing Cafés, where local residents can meet others, chat, take part in activities and build connections. 

Through the Barnet Wellbeing Hub, our Wellbeing Navigators can also help people explore the different support, activities and services available in their local community. Our approach is person-centred: we listen to what matters to you and work with you to identify what could help. 

Sometimes the first step is simply reaching out. 

 If you need more urgent support 

Meridian Wellbeing's services are there to support your mental health and wellbeing, but we are not an emergency or crisis service. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide, please seek urgent professional help. 

• You can call NHS 111 and select the mental health option (dial 2) for urgent mental health support in England.  
• You can also call Samaritans free, 24 hours a day, on 116 123 to talk to someone who will listen without judgement. 
• If someone is in immediate danger or has seriously harmed themselves, call 999 or go to A&E. 

Let's keep the conversation going 

World Suicide Prevention Day is one day in the calendar but looking out for each other is something we can all do throughout the year. So why not check in with someone, listen, and encourage them to seek support when things become difficult. 

And remember this applies to you too! So, ask for help if you need it. 

Sometimes, that first conversation can be the beginning of something important. And there are opportunities to continue those conversations with us at Meridian Wellbeing. 

On the 6th October, Meridian Wellbeing will be hosting a joint special World Mental Health Day event at the Meritage Centre, bringing people together to learn more about mental health, wellbeing and the support available in our community.  

We'd love to see you there. Keep an eye on our website and social media for more information about the event and how to get involved. 

Image Credit:"Business partners" by Tsahi Levent-Levi is licensed under CC BY 2.0.