Suicidal thoughts: What to do if you, or someone you know, is having them [Guide]

by Lyn Stepanian, Public Health Practitioner

Are you having suicidal thoughts?

• Talk to someone: It could be a friend or family, or a confidential and non-judgemental support service you can contact below
• Wait: Your thoughts and feelings CAN change
• If you feel: You are in immediate danger, contact emergency services on 999

Worried about someone else with suicidal thoughts?

• Be alert: Not everyone who thinks about suicide will tell someone, but there may be warning signs.
• Be Honest: Tell the person why you’re worried about them, and ask about suicide
• Listen: Just listening is one of the most helpful things you can do. Try not to judge or give advice.
• Take care of yourself: You may find it helpful to discuss your feelings with another friend or a confidential service

If the person is in immediate danger contact 999

Who to talk to

All of the following support is non judgemental and you will be listened to.

Confidential listening and local support for everyone.

Samaritans offer a safe place for people to talk to anyone you like, in your own way – about whatever’s getting to you.

Call 116 123 free

Mind offer a wide range of support and services for the one in four people and their families affected by mental or emotional distress

Call 0300 123 3393

Shout is a free 24/7 text service for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere. It’s a place to go if you’re struggling to cope and you need immediate help.

Text 85258

For anybody who is worried about their mental health, already using adult mental health services, who needs to contact us out of hours, who cares for someone receiving adult mental health services from us, concerned about the mental health of an adult family member or close friend.

Call: 0808 196 4501

Confidential support dedicated for children

Kooth provides free, safe and anonymous online support for young people.

Visit: www.kooth.com

Beam have drop in centres in Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin. Check for location and opening times.

Childline are an emotional health and well-being service for children and young people, so if you’re under 25 and have something on your mind, we’re here to listen and support you.

Call: 0800 1111

Download, keep and share this information

The Shropshire and Telford Suicide Prevention Network provide this inforamtion and have distributed it as concertina “Zcards” across the region.

They aim to provide a discreet reference guide of support for anyone who may be having suicidal thoughts, is concerned about someone else, and tells people who to contact.

Please feel free to download, keep and share this guidance.