A powerful video targeting young adults has been produced in a bid to prevent suicides in North Lanarkshire.
It’s at the forefront of a new campaign which aims to raise awareness of the issue and signposts where you can get help for either yourself, or friends and family members.
The Let’s Talk campaign is part of Suicide Prevention North Lanarkshire’s focus on tackling the stigma around suicide and raising awareness about where to get help, as the latest figures show an increase in the number of young adults, those aged 16 to 24 years old, taking their own lives. The video also encourages young people to talk more openly about suicide.
The campaign was launched by North Lanarkshire Council leader, Jordan Linden, who himself has had personal experience of feelings of low mood and living with depression.
He said, “I know first-hand the emotional worry and stress that people live with, when living with poor mental health. And these feelings can happen to anyone at any time, and I know from personal experience how distressing and lonely it can feel.
"But it’s important that people know that help is available, and I would urge anyone with concerns, fears or worries to reach out. There are people who care about and love you and they will help you. Please reach out and speak to them."
Councillor Linden continued: “You may have been feeling low for a while. Sometimes suicidal thoughts and feelings can build slowly and other times they can hit out of nowhere. Either way, hiding your feelings may make things worse.
“Sharing your feelings with a friend or family member, GP or other mental health professionals, can be hard, but it can change everything. And if you don’t feel able to speak to someone you know and trust, there are people on the end of a phone who are experienced in managing feelings of suicide and will help to keep you safe.
“If you are the family member or friend who is concerned about someone, don’t be afraid to ask about their feelings. Checking in on the people you care about gives them the opening to talk. You can do this in person, on the phone or even via text if that feels more comfortable to start with.
“There is only one you, and you matter, so however you go about it, Let’s Talk and prevent the tragedy of suicide together.”
To find out more about this vital new campaign and video, visit: https://northlanarkshire.gov.uk/talk
If you are worried about suicide: Call Samaritans on 116 123; HopelineUK on 0800 068 41 41; if you’re under 16 you can call Childline on 0800 1111 or if you’d prefer not to talk, text ‘SHOUT’ (or text ‘YM’ if you’re under 19) to 85258 and someone will text you back.
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