The Charity Fighting Suicide Stigma
Today marks World Suicide Prevention Day.
The folks from Isle Stand Up To Suicide have been at Marks and Spencers in Douglas today, chatting, offering support and raising awareness about suicide prevention.
Their aim? To break the silence and get people talking openly about mental health.
This global day is all about spreading hope, raising awareness and taking action to prevent suicide.
Isle Stand Up To Suicide has highlighted a concerning trend: The Isle of Man has seen a “significant increase” in suicides in recent years and was the only place in the UK where suicide rates went up during the pandemic.
The charity wants to bust the myth that talking about suicide “puts the idea” in someone’s head.
Instead, they say that having these conversations can help people see things differently and encourage them to seek help.
Their experience shows these chats resonate deeply with people who’ve faced suicidal thoughts or lost someone to suicide.
They’re encouraging everyone to be brave enough to ask the tough question: “Are you having thoughts of suicide?”
They’re also keen to tackle the bigger issues, pointing out that mental and physical health still aren’t treated equally.
‘We’ve made some strides, but there’s still a long way to go’, says an Isle Stand Up To Suicide spokesperson. ‘Prioritising mental health and tackling stigma is key’.
Isle Stand Up To Suicide offers a range of support for those in crisis, including a free helpline open from 2pm to 10pm daily, access to volunteer counsellors or therapists, and training in the QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention method.
It’s hoped that their presence in Douglas today will get people talking, sharing and help save lives.
Important information:
You can get in touch with Isle Stand up to Suicide on 803040 (2pm-10pm daily) or find more information HERE.
Alternatively you can reach out to the Samaritans, available 24/7, on 116 123, or find more information HERE.
