People in Norfolk and Suffolk urged to get support for mental health
Data from the Office for National Statistics found the East has the third lowest suicide rate in the UK.
Last updated 14th Dec 2021
Data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) has found that 76 people took their own lives in Norfolk, last year.
The ONS also found that three quarters of those who died by suicide were men. While the East has the third lowest suicide rate in the UK.
Ruth Noble, is a therapist from Diss, she told us that the "reasons for suicide are as varied as there are people in the world" but once somebody is there, they are "at crisis point".
She told us that it's important people start trying to address issues about their mental health in "smaller steps" and "as early as possible".
She went on to say that: "When we start to ignore the bad feelings, they build up and we eventually get overwhelmed. But if we start smaller and take those steps when we feel sad or unhappy, then we don't get to the point where these feelings are so big and overwhelming".
When asked about what we can do to help our friends and family, Ms Noble told us: "We can be available when they want to talk and be open to their feelings".
She also said that "instead of saying everything will be fine, try saying lets talk. Listening is so powerful, important and we can all do it."
She also told us that all those "little conversations that we have, where we are able to be genuine and appreciative of each other help people feel that life is valuable."
"If you asked somebody if they are okay, the very worst thing they can say is that they're fine, Ms Noble told us. But "if you look at somebody, think they are struggling and don't say anything, the worst thing that can happen is the worst thing that can happen".
She concluded by saying that if you come across somebody who is suicidal, "don't panic, listen, be supportive and take them seriously." But if a person does make the decision to end their life, "its not on your shoulders, you can only do your best to support them."
These messages were echoed by Sue Willgoss of Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust: “I feel strongly that suicide is everyone’s business. Mental health services should be there when people need them, but there is also so much that the community can do too. Just listening to someone who is approaching a crisis can make all the difference as it helps them to feel that they have been heard".
Where can I get support?
You can find support services near you here.
You can also phone Samaritans for free at any time of day or night on 116 123.
YANA (You Are Not Alone) also offer mental health support, specifically to people in rural areas such as Norfolk and Suffolk. Their helpline is: 0300 323 0400.