With the cost of living rising sharply, following an incredibly challenging few years, people may find themselves or loved ones feeling more worried or anxious.  The UK’s leading suicide prevention charity is trying to reduce the stigma around suicide and urging people to look out for each other.

Evidence* shows that asking someone if they’re suicidal doesn’t make things worse, it can protect people, as it provides a crucial opportunity to open up, express their feelings and seek help. 

To help initiate conversations around suicidal thoughts, Samaritans has suggested asking direct questions including ‘Have you thought about ending your life?’ and ‘Are you saying that you want to die?’, as well as providing new tips and assets via their website.

Paul, 42, describes how opening up about his suicidal thoughts helped him get the support he needed: “I had a lot of trauma and I never really dealt with the triggers from my childhood. It all came to a halt when I tried to take my own life on several occasions. I had got to the end of my own strength. I felt there was no way out – I couldn’t talk to anyone. I felt trapped.

“It was only when I began getting support that I started to accept that something wasn’t quite right. I’ve contacted Samaritans on numerous occasions. I would call at 2am with no hope. I can honestly say that those calls saved my life.”

Fiona Cameron, Branch Director at Worthing Samaritans said: “It’s crucial that we all look out for each other and ask anyone you’re concerned about, direct questions to allow them the time and space to express what they’re really going through. It could help save someone you love. Suicide can be preventable, and everyone has an important role to play.”

Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, 24/7, 365 days a year, on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or search Worthing Samaritans.  

  

* Dazzi, T., Gribble, R., Wessely, S., & Fear, N. (2014). Does asking about suicide and related behaviours induce suicidal ideation? What is the evidence? Psychological Medicine, 44(16), 3361-3363. doi:10.1017/S0033291714001299