Suicide prevention starts with recognising warning signs and treating them seriously.
It's something that we can all individually help with. A short conversation with another person can sometimes be enough to make the difference.
Students: The Big White Wall is an online community dedicated to starting conversations and creating a safe place to share. They've put together the following advice for spotting the signs:
World Mental Health Day 2019: Suicide Prevention Spot the Signs
If you recognise yourself in these signs and symptoms, reach out for support. Even if it doesn't feel like there are people and organisations who want to help you. Reach out to someone. Do it now.
The Big White Wall is available 24/7 for access to mental health support. You can access free online support and use the Support Network and Guided Support just by registering with your university email address. As part of registering you choose an anonymous username for your time on the wall.
It's free, and totally anonymous so no one will know you've chosen to use it, unless you tell them.
Staff: The Employee Assistance Programme provides an independent, free and completely confidential service. Run by CiC it offers assistance for whatever life throws at you.
It's available 24 hours a day and is staffed by a range of experienced consultants who are qualified to give clear, relevant guidance on either the personal or professional challenges you face.
WAIT - a way to remember how you can support another person
The advice 'WAIT' is another good way to remember how you can support another person who may be suicidal. It stands for:
- Watch out for signs of distress and uncharacteristic behaviour e.g. social withdrawal, excessive quietness, irritability, uncharacteristic outburst, talking about death or suicide
- Ask "are you having suicidal thoughts?" Asking about suicide does not encourage it, nor does it lead a person to start thinking about it; in fact it may help prevent it, and can start a potentially life-saving conversation
- It will pass – assure your loved one that, with help, their suicidal feelings will pass with time
- Talk to others – encourage your loved one to seek help from a GP or health professional.
You can also find more information on the importance of looking after our wellbeing on our wellbeing hub.
About World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day is a day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma. It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organisation with members and contacts in more than 150 countries.
It is recognised by the World Health Organisation on 10 October every year.
