Today, Thursday 10th September is World Suicide Awareness Day and for the many people who may be feeling depressed or vulnerable, now more than ever is a time to say there is help and support out there no matter what has led to you feeling this way.
Being distracted from suicidal thoughts and engaging in activities to take time away from the difficulties can also help to lift the mood for those with suicidal thoughts at whatever level or intensity. For those of us not feeling distressed, being able to make connections with someone we think may be struggling, to give someone the opportunity to share with us how they are feeling, can really help.
In Wood Green from March to now, a number of people have been supported after being found by staff or members of the public within areas of the Town Centre trying to commit suicide and thankfully all where supported and got the help they needed.
If you need support, help or just feel you need to talk to someone, there are different organisations which are out there which are awaiting you to contact them.
SUPPORT AND HELPLINES
Below are just a few of the organisation which are available to those who may be having suicide thoughts or are those who are worried about friends or family.
National Suicide Prevention Awareness Organisation
The National Suicide Prevention Alliance (NSPA) is an alliance of public, private and voluntary organisations in England who care about suicide prevention and are willing to take individual and collective action to reduce suicide and support those bereaved or affected by suicide.
NHS Choices
The National Health Service Choices website has information, guidance and links to others who support those with Suicide thoughts.
The Samaritans
The Samaritans operate a dedicated 24 hour helpline for those who have suicide thoughts
Shout
Shout is the first UK organisation to provide a free 24 hour text service for anyone of any age to get in touch. More information at giveusashout.org
Childline
Childline is there for any young person to get in touch for any reason to talk to about any issues including suicide. There are a range of ways of getting into contact including visiting their website at childline.org.uk where you can use their 1-2-1 chat, Ask Sam feature or drop them a email. You can also call them for free 24 hours a day.
The Mix
Life’s tough, we know that. It can throw a lot your way and make it hard to know what the hell to do with it all. So, welcome to The Mix. Whether you’re 13, 25, or any age in between, we’re here to take on the embarrassing problems, weird questions, and please-don’t-make-me-say-it-out-loud thoughts you have.
We give you the information and support you need to deal with it all. Because you can. Because you’re awesome. We’ll connect you to experts and your peers who’ll give you the support and tools you need to take on any challenge you’re facing – for everything from homelessness to finding a job, from money to mental health, from break-ups to drugs. We’re a free and confidential multi-channel service.
That means that you choose how you access our support, without the worry of anyone else finding out. Whether it be through our articles and video content online or our phone, email, peer to peer and counselling services – we put the control in your hands. You can even volunteer with us too.