People struggling in Hertfordshire urged to speak out this World Suicide Prevention Day
This year's theme is all about hope through action
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day 2021, which aims to raise awareness for the issue and educate people on resources they can seek out if they are struggling with their mental health. In Hertfordshire, there are a number of organisations and charities which are making positive change in the community and offer a range of services to individuals.
This year's international theme is about 'Creating Hope Through Action', and focuses on what can be done to prevent all deaths from suicide.
Charities in the area are always reminding people that suicide is preventable, not inevitable. Additionally, they often push the message that communities can look out for signs in others that something is not right and implement projective strategies to prevent the issue.
There are a range of helplines available for people to talk about how they are feeling. The Samaritans offer information on their website about how they can help, and have a helpline which anyone can ring for free on 116 123. The charity also encourage people to talk sensitively about mental health with others in their social circle.
Mental health charity in Hertfordshire; Viewpoint, is also determined to take away the stigma and taboo around suicide.
Having a meaningful conversation about mental health
Stephen Crow is a Peer Support Co-ordinator at the charity and explained how people can make a difference in the community. He stated:
"Saying things out loud can sometimes take away their power and a problem shared can be a problem halved. There may be other people out there who feel the same as you or have had similar experiences and knowing that you're not alone is quite a powerful thing I think."
He also noted that there are a number of ways to have a productive conversation about mental health if someone is worried about another person they know. He said:
"The first thing to do is to try and approach that person, assess the crisis and assist with the crisis if you can. Listen and communicate non-judgementally, give support and information, encourage the appropriate professional help and encourage other support that might be in your community."
He added:
"Don't suffer in silence. Don't suffer alone. Reach out for help; whoever it is you can contact, reaching out I think is very important."
"Steve Mallen is involved with the Zero Suicide Alliance and campaigns for his son in the Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire area, and he was in a great TV programme about his campaign to push for a Zero number in suicides. Every suicide can be prevented if we just make the effort."
Crow also stressed the importance of ringing 999 if someone is thought to be in an emergency situation.