World Suicide Prevention Day is on the 10th September each year. In Dundee, like many other areas across Scotland, we have planned a week-long campaign from Monday 9th – Sunday 15th September.
The International Association for Suicide Prevention sets an overarching theme each year. The theme for the next three years is ‘Changing the Narrative’ and the associated call to action is #StartTheConversation.
Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue. It’s about shifting from a culture of silence and lack of understanding to one of openness, empathy, and support. Changing the narrative on suicide aims to inspire individuals, communities and organisations to engage in open and honest discussions about suicide and suicidal behaviour. By initiating these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create better cultures of understanding and support.
In Dundee, we want to make it easier for people to talk openly about suicide by raising awareness of how our simple day-to-day conversations can pave the way to talking openly about suicide and potentially saving a life.
Our local campaign Stop. Ask. Listen. encourages us to take the time to:
STOP when we pass someone we usually see in the corridor at work or school, in the street, in the shop…
ASK a simple question like ‘how are you?’, ‘how are you doing?’ or ‘how has your day been?’
LISTEN carefully to what they say, their tone of voice, and body language. If you’re worried, find a safe space and ask them how they really are. Let them know about support available.
You don’t need to be an expert to help prevent suicide. A simple question could start the conversation that saves a life.
Hope Point
24/7 compassionate support if you're in distress
Freephone: 0800 955 0008
Text Number: 01382 604 123
Drop in: 4 South Ward Road. DD1 1PN
Breathing Space
'Open up when you're feeling down
Freephone: 0800 83 85 87
Monday-Thursday 6pm - 2am
Friday 6pm - Monday 6am
Samaritans
24/7 'whatever you're going through, a Samaritan will go through it with you'
Freephone 116 123
SHOUT
Free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging service for anyone who is struggling to cope.
Text SHOUT to 85258
NHS 24
24/7 if you need help with mental health distress.
Freephone: 111
PAPYRUS Hopeline 247
Call 0800 068 4141
Text 88247
Visit: https://www.papyrus-uk.org/
The Corner, Dundee – Young People’s Health and Wellbeing Service
Chat online and book an appointment: www.thecorner.co.uk
Drop-in 1-6pm Mon-Friday at 13 Shore Terrace, Dundee, DD1 3DP
Cool2Talk - Your questions answered accurately and without judgement within 24 hours. A safe space for young people age 12 up to & including 25living in Tayside.
Visit www.cool2talk.org
For more information about a range of other support available visit NHS Inform:
https://www.nhsinform.scot/surviving-suicidal-thoughts/getting-help-with-your-suicidal-thoughts/
Talking openly about suicide
Mind – Supporting someone who feels suicidal – talking about suicidal feelings
