Suicide Prevention Day: Where to get help

More than a third of Scots would not feel confident talking about suicide with their family, a survey has found.

The YouGov poll of 1,013 people was commissioned by the National Suicide Prevention Leadership Group (NSPLG).

It found 39% of people would struggle to speak about the issue with family, while 54% would not feel confident broaching the subject with colleagues.

But most people (51%) would be confident talking to their friends about suicide.

Nearly a third (31%) of people in Scotland would not know how to help if someone they knew was having suicidal thoughts and more than a third (36%) have never spoken about suicide with anyone.

Mental health minister Clare Haughey said: "Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy.

"It's important that we all feel able to listen and talk about suicide more openly and that is why I am encouraging everyone to join the movement for change - United to Prevent Suicide.

"By being open and honest we will break down barriers and help to save lives.''

The founder of a Lanarkshire mental health charity is telling Clyde News the number of people phoning for advice and help since Coronavirus restrictions began has doubled.

Anne Rowan opened Chris' House after her son sadly committed suicide in 2011, and says they've never been so busy.

She said: "The figures are definitely rising, there's no two ways about it.

"Covid-19 has a lot to do with that just now and the impact it's having on mental health is starting to be seen now.

"That's just the tip of the iceberg though, there's so much more to come.

"We're mobbed at the moment. We're using zoom or telephone counselling and that's quite difficult."

"We, at Chris' House, know how much the rate has risen just purely on people calling us for help because they've lost a family member to suicide. I'd say our numbers have easily doubled since the pandemic started."

She continued: "People who are generally mentally unwell are finding it hard not to be able to see their consultants and only have check-in calls.

"It's not enough for some people. I think the level of support that these people need is much higher than what can be given, logistically, through Covid.

"People are struggling with job losses, insecurity in their lives and relationships. There are a plethora of reasons."

Anne also explained it's not only people with long-term issues who are struggling at the moment.

She explained: "People that have never been mentally unwell are finding it difficult to cope with the changes in their lives.

"Things like working from home, childcare isues, partnership breakdowns and financial dificulties.

"There's such an amount as well as pre-existing conditions that people live with on a daily basis.

"Anyone with suicidal thoughts, please don't hesitate to call us on 01236 766755.

"You can come to a place of hope where it gets better."

Where to find help

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, there are a number of organisations available 24/7 which can help:

Samaritans - A helpline for anyone feeling low or considering suicide. You can phone them on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.

NHS 24 - The 111 service, providing urgent physical and mental health advice out of hours. Phone 111.

Childline - A service for young people under 19 struggling with mental health issues, or any other problem. Phone 0800 1111.

YoungMinds Crisis Messenger - A 24/7 text messaging service for young people in crisis. Text YM to 85258.

Hear the latest news on Clyde 1 on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.