World Suicide Prevention Day – #WSPD18

World Suicide Prevention Day is 10 September,  an annual awareness raising event organised by International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organisation (WHO).

We will be supporting the day through raising awareness on social media, discussing suicide prevention in our drop in services this week and letting me people know about the services we offer for those who are struggling to cope.

Suicidal thoughts are far more common than people realise but we just don’t talk about them. There are certain factors that should be considered if you suspect someone to be having suicidal thoughts. It’s important to know the signs; it could make the difference at saving a life.

Certain factors are known to be associated with increased risk of suicide. These include:

  • Drug and alcohol misuse
  • History of trauma or abuse
  • Unemployment
  • Social isolation
  • Poverty
  • Poor social conditions
  • Imprisonment
  • Violence
  • Family breakdown.

If you are feeling suicidal or are concerned for someone else, please remember there is help available in Surrey:

In Surrey and Aldershot we have 5 Safe Havens are places where people can go when feeling suicidal or experiencing a mental health crisis. They are open 365 days a year, open evenings and weekends. To find out more https://www.catalystsupport.org.uk/how-we-help-you/safe-havens/

The Welcome Project, who are part of Catalyst, also offer 1-1 support and group activities for those who are struggling to cope with their emotional wellbeing. To find out more https://www.catalystsupport.org.uk/how-we-help-you/welcome-project/

Other help and support available
  • Samaritans offer a 24-hours a day, 7 days a week support service. Call them FREE on 116 123.
  • Papyrus is a dedicated service for young people up to the age of 35 who are worried about how they are feeling or anyone concerned about a young person. You can call the HOPElineUK number on 0800 068 4141, you can text 07786 209697
  • NHS Choices: 24-hour national helpline providing health advice and information. Call them free on 111.
  • C.A.L.M.: National helpline for men to talk about any issues they are feeling. Call 0800 58 58 58.