The Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership (AWP) is marking World Suicide Prevention Day, taking place today 10th September, by urging local residents not to suffer in silence.
World Suicide Prevention Day is an awareness day that takes place on 10th September every year.
It aims to ensure worldwide commitment and action to prevent suicides.
In 2017 there were 5,821 suicides registered in the UK, with males accounting for three quarters of suicides (4,382).
Suicide rates were highest for males aged between 45 and 49 years old and for females aged 50 to 54 years old.
Through its Suicide Prevention Strategy, AWP aims to mirror the national target set by the Department of Health to reduce the number of suicides by 10% by 2020.
On World Suicide Prevention Day, AWP is reminding people that there is always help and support available and if you have suicidal thoughts you should talk to someone as this can help.
Director of Nursing for AWP, Julie Kerry, said: “Suicide is devastating for all those involved so it is important that we highlight the help and support available to anyone who may be having suicidal thoughts and to anyone worried about a friend or family who may be going through a difficult time.
“Confiding in others is probably the single most important thing to do so we would urge people to talk about their feelings.
“We would also encourage everyone to take part in the Zero Suicide Alliance’s 20 minute online training course to help recognise the warning signs.
“AWP takes suicide prevention very seriously and we work closely with other health agencies and public health specialists and research teams to find ways to reduce the risk of suicide.
“We have a suicide prevention strategy which sets out our work in this area between now and 2020.”
The Zero Suicide Alliance provides a free 20 minute online training package, which is open to everyone.
The course offers guidance on how to spot the warning signs and advice on how to be supportive and how to signpost an individual to the correct services or support.
To access the training visit: https://www.zerosuicidealliance.com/.