Cornwall Samaritans warns of the effect the pandemic is having on mental health
World Suicide Prevention Day is encouraging people who are struggling to speak out
People across Cornwall who are struggling with their mental health are being urged to speak out on World Suicide Prevention Day.
The latest figures have revealed that almost 200 people took their owns lives in the Duchy in the space of two years, between 2018 and 2020.
Many people have struggled through the coronavirus pandemic and there are fears that the situation could get worse.
Richard Sutton is from Cornwall Samaritans and told us that the anxiety and stress of the pandemic is having a devastating affect on people's live.
He said: "People have still got the same problems, financial, relationships, work, health, but I think the pandemic has exaggerated these things and made people more aware of things that are wrong, it has made things seem worse.
"Some people get these dark thoughts, these black moods, and retreat and not want to talk about it, but if you can talk to a friend, well to anyone, it is absolutely vital."
Anyone who is struggling is being encouraged to talk and to reach out for support.
The Samaritans have a campaign running called Small Talk Saves Lives, which is encouraging people to speak to strangers and check in that they're okay if something seems wrong.
Richard added: "If you're at the bus stop, you're at the railway station, you're in a queue at the supermarket and somebody doesn't seem right, go up to them and start a simple conversation, 'the weather's awful today', 'when is this bus going to come', 'where can I get a cup of coffee?'. Anything just to distract their thoughts, and it may start a conversation."
World Suicide Prevention Day is led by the International Association for Suicide Prevention.
The theme for 2021 is 'Creating Hope Through Action'.
The organisation said: "We have all recently seen unprecedented change as we adapt to a world altered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Mental Health has risen to global priority as the psychosocial implications of social distancing, quarantines and other restrictions become clear.
"The theme of ‘Creating Hope Through Action’ has been both well considered and timely in it’s pertinent call to urge people towards action; that we should all feel equipped, supported and inspired to act as we try to prevent more suicides around the world."
They added: "One in every 100 deaths worldwide is the result of suicide. It can affect every one of us. Each and every suicide is devastating and has a profound impact on those around them.
"However, by raising awareness, reducing the stigma around suicide and encouraging well-informed action, we can reduce instances of suicide around the world.
"World Suicide Prevention Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of suicide and to promote action through proven means that will reduce the number of suicides and suicide attempts globally."
You can find out more about World Suicide Prevention Day here.
Where to get help
In an emergency always call 999
You can contact Samaritans for free at any time on 116 123, or visit www.samaritans.org
Speak to your GP
Text SHOUT to 85258
You can find local services via www.hubofhope.co.uk