World Suicide Prevention Day

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Today, the 10th of September, is World Suicide Prevention Day. This is an opportunity for all of us to play our part in preventing suicide.

 

We can all make a difference, as a member of society, as a parent, as a friend, as a colleague or as a neighbor. There are many things that we can do, on a daily basis and on World Suicide Prevention Day, to prevent suicidal behaviour. These include raising awareness about the issue, educating ourselves and others about the causes and the warning signs for suicide and supports available to those in distress, showing compassion and care for those around us, questioning the stigma associated with suicide, suicidal behaviour and mental health problems and also by looking after our own mental health.

 

Today, Take a Moment to…

  1. Take a moment to notice how you are feeling and what is going on for you, what is going on for your family, your friends and your colleagues.

  2. Reach out to a family member, friend or colleague who may seem distant.

Resources and Supports – If you are in crisis or are worried about someone – help is available from the following services:

Local GPs,

South Doc out of Hours Service 1850 335 999;

nearest Hospital Emergency Department,

Pieta FREEPHONE 24/7 Suicide Helpline 1800 247 247,

Samaritans FREE PHONE 116 123;

Your Mental Health Information Line FREE PHONE 1800 111888, Text ‘Hello’ to 50808

Childline FREE Phone 24/7 1800 666 666

Websites such as www.yourmentalhealth.ie and www.nosp.ie give information on how to support yourself or someone you care about and details of local and national services. 

Preventing suicide requires the efforts of many – each of us, healthcare professionals, educators, community members and political officials and governments – but the positive effects of this collaborative work can be sustainable and have a massive impact.  That’s why this September 10th join with many others across the world who are playing their part in the prevention of suicide.

The International Association for Suicide Prevention (https://www.iasp.info/) also have beneficial resources on their website too.