North-east organisations urge people considering taking their lives to seek help
A new guide has been created to help people struggling
Last updated 8th Aug 2022
Scottish people considering taking their lives are being urged to seek help.
The Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH), NHS Grampian and Police Scotland have today made the plea for people who are struggling ,as well as those concerned for another , to act.
It comes as the organisations launched a new guide to assist those worried that someone in their life is suicidal - amidst increased concerns about the impact the pandemic and its associated restrictions have had on people’s mental health.
The north-east organisations are working together to share information and resources, and have now produced a guide to assist anyone worried that someone in their life is suicidal. This includes advice on how to ask the question and how to get them the right support.
Paul Southworth, public health consultant at NHS Grampian, explained "There is no harm at all in asking if someone is feeling suicidal, it does not put that thought into their head.
"Studies have shown people are less likely to make an attempt on their life if they can talk about their thoughts and feelings."
Meanwhile, Liam Yule, suicide prevention manager and north-east suicide prevention lead at SAMH, said it was "vitally important that we continue the conversation about suicide and suicide prevention".
New guide and app
The new guide has also been added to the Prevent Suicide App, and Mr Yule said the three organisations were building a "source of useful tips and hints and ways to start a conversation about suicide" alongside information about services available to support those with thoughts of taking their own life.
As part of the focus on suicide prevention, police officers in the north-east have also received additional training on factors that may point to a person being at a higher risk of attempting suicide.
Chief inspector Darren Bruce, from Police Scotland's North East Division, said: "It's really encouraging that there is a great deal of messaging out there for people experiencing difficulties and mental health issues.
"However, what is equally important is that there are mechanisms in place to support those around someone who they feel may be struggling so they know what help to offer."