Let’s talk about… SUICIDE © BDLD CIC 2018

SUICIDE MYTHS “People who talk about suicide are just attention seeking. Only the ones who don’t talk about it are at risk of killing themselves”. “Suicides aren’t common, so we won’t have to worry about them here”. “Asking someone about suicide might put the idea in their head”. © BDLD CIC 2018

SUICIDE FACTS People are often reluctant to talk about their thoughts – but those that do should be encouraged to express their pain. There are more than 3 times more deaths by suicide each year than deaths by road accidents. Asking someone about suicide gives them consent to talk, this can absolutely save lives. © BDLD CIC 2018

HOW COMMON IS SUICIDE IDEATION? (Percentage of the population) © BDLD CIC 2018

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE WARNING SIGNS? Expressing thoughts of hopelessness, helplessness, shame, guilt, anger or rage A dramatic change in personality, appearance or mood Withdrawing from friends, family or society Changed eating or sleeping habits A serious drop in work performance Expressing thoughts of no reason for living, no sense of purpose in life Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide Saying goodbye, or putting affairs in order Use of suicide chat rooms/pro-suicide internet sites Sudden unexplained ‘recovery’ © BDLD CIC 2018

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS? The person has made previous attempts There’s a family history of suicide The person has access to lethal means Social isolation Unemployment lasting more than one month Homelessness A debilitating or terminal illness Has experienced loss, such as the breakup of a relationship or a death Misusing alcohol and drugs The person is suffering from bullying/abuse/trauma/neglect. © BDLD CIC 2018

If You Suspect That Someone is Considering Suicide By all means, let me know. I can approach the person and have a conversation. Asking someone how they’re feeling really helps. If you’re comfortable doing so, ask the person outright. Don’t procrastinate! Time is of the essence, as you are unlikely to know how imminent a suicide attempt might be. © BDLD CIC 2018

If You’re Feeling This Way Please know that there is help available. You are not weak - thoughts of suicide are common. Remember – these thoughts do not need to be acted on. Keep substances (alcohol, drugs) to a minimum. Come and speak to me. I may be able to offer you practical help, and often “just” talking about how you’re feeling can really help. I also have details of some really good, confidential support organisations. © BDLD CIC 2018