Western Isles marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Week

This week marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Week concluding on Saturday 10^th September, World Suicide Prevention Day. This year’s theme for Suicide Prevention Week is ‘Creating Hope, Through Action’. 

At any one time around 1 in 25 people in Scotland are contemplating suicide. Many people have been touched by suicide in some way – whether it’s themselves, a loved one, or someone they know. Suicide is of concern to all of us.  The simple truth is you’re more likely to encounter someone who needs a suicide intervention than physical first aid. 

We have to be confident to talk about suicide; confident to connect someone to the right support. Language is important – talking about suicide isn’t a trigger, it can help save a life, and we must continue to tackle stigma around suicide.  

Dr Maggie Watts, NHS Western Isles Director of Public Health, said: “The emotional impact on families, friends and communities bereaved by suicide is devastating and can have long lasting negative effects on those left behind. Every life matters, and no death by suicide should be regarded as either accepted or inevitable.  

“The key to achieving this is to be clear that suicide prevention is everyone’s business. We need to work together across our communities to identify and support people in distress, strengthen our response as a whole, and save lives.” 

The theme of ‘Creating Hope Through Action’ is a reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and aims to inspire confidence and a belief in all of us; that our actions, no matter how big or small, may provide hope to those who are struggling.  

Preventing suicide is possible and we are each key players in its prevention. Through action, you can make a difference to someone in their darkest moments – as a member of our community, as a child, as a parent, as a friend, as a colleague or as a neighbour.  

The key message is as always: 

….if you’re worried about someone, such as a friend, family member or workmate, asking them directly about their feelings. It can help to save their life. 

If you are struggling and would like to speak to someone about suicidal thoughts there is help available: 

NHS 24 (111)  

Breathing Space (0800 83 85 87)  

Samaritans (116 123)