People across Sussex are being encouraged to start conversations about suicide as part of efforts to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.
Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, public health and voluntary sector organisations have joined forces to highlight how asking someone directly about suicidal thoughts could help save a life.
World Suicide Prevention Day takes place every year on 10 September and aims to tackle stigma surrounding suicide while encouraging action to prevent deaths.
As part of this year’s campaign in Sussex, partner organisations have developed new resources to help people recognise when someone may be struggling and give them confidence to start a conversation.
A dedicated online resource includes information about possible warning signs, advice on how to ask someone if they are thinking about suicide and guidance on how to respond if they say yes.
The advice also aims to reassure people that directly asking someone about suicidal thoughts does not increase the risk.
Darrell Gale, Director of Public Health for East Sussex County Council, said: “Asking someone if they are thinking about suicide can feel daunting, but that one direct question could save a life. It can help them to feel heard and understood.
“You do not need to have all the answers. Just by starting a conversation can help someone feel less alone and take the first step towards support.”
The campaign is encouraging people to recognise that they do not need to be a mental health professional to start a potentially important conversation.
Further information, including guidance on recognising warning signs, talking about suicide and accessing mental health support, is available through the Sussex NHS “How Are You Really Feeling?” website: https://www.how-are-you-really-feeling-sussex.nhs.uk/preventing-suicide
If you find this story upsetting, you can call the Samaritans 24/7 for free on 116123 or find out more at www.samaritans.org for urgent help call 999.
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