Suicide is a silent crisis
Suicide is the biggest killer of both men and women under thirty-five and not enough people are talking about it. Changing the stigma of suicide is crucial to reduce the amount of people killed but for many people, suicide is still a topic they find difficult to talk about. But ignoring it only adds to the problem, making it harder for those struggling to seek help. In the last year alone, there were over 1.4 million Google searches for “what is suicide?”. This is just a small indication of how many people are wrestling with their mental health.
Behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a friendship group that is affected. They’re not just figures, they are real people with real stories.
Some symptoms include:
- Low energy
- Feeling tired
- Finding it hard to think clearly
- Feeling extra emotional
- Not wanting to take part in your hobbies
- Turning to alcohol and drugs to cope
- Not wanting to talk to or be with people
- Easily frustrated
Suicide in the construction industry
One of the lesser-known facts about suicide is how it disproportionately affects people in certain industries. The suicide rate in the construction industry is three times higher than the national average. Many workers in this field face high levels of stress and physical demands, usually spend extended periods away from home and often have limited access to mental health support. We must protect people in every industry and support those that show signs of struggling.
Why Awareness Matters
By talking openly about mental health, we make it easier for people to reach out when they need help. We are changing the stigma of suicide. Raising awareness about suicide prevention can and does save lives. Suicide can be prevented if the right support is in place. Here’s a few things you can do to help:
1. Talk About It: Check in with the people you care about every once in a while. Let them know it’s okay to talk about how they’re feeling.
2. Educate Yourself: Know the warning signs of someone struggling with suicidal thoughts. These can include withdrawing from social activities, talking about feeling hopeless and sudden mood changes. A Mental Health First Aid course can give you insights into how to confidently help someone struggling.
3. Encourage Professional Help: Remind people that there is no shame in seeking help from a counsellor, therapist, or doctor. There are also hotlines and text services available for immediate help.
Mind are mental health charity that supports anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They can be contacted at 0300 102 1234.
Samaritans are also on hand to support you 24/7 at 116 123 or jo@samaritans.org.