WSPD is a time when each and every one of us can demonstrate to others in our lives and communities that there is hope. Even though suicide is a very complex issue, we can, and should always, signal to people who are vulnerable or experiencing suicidal thoughts, that we care and want to support them. This helps to create a more compassionate society where those who need to, feel more comfortable in coming forward to seek help.
Creating Hope Through Action
Here are six simple actions we can all take, that can help create hope with others.
- Reach in – Reach in to someone you know might be struggling or to someone who you know has struggled before.
- Reach out – If you are feeling particularly low or hopeless, always remember that sharing things with someone else will help.
- Reconnect – Find ways to re-establish meaningful connections for people, wherever they have been lost or damaged. A good sense of belonging is important for people’s mental health.
- Learn more – Learn more about suicide prevention and how to recognise and identify people who might be at risk of suicide, confidently ask them about suicide, and connect them with resources that can help.
- Show your support – Connect with a support or community organisation – volunteer, help spread their messages, and become involved in activities that help promote positive mental health and wellbeing, or suicide prevention in your community.
- Know where to turn – Get to know what mental health services and supports are available, and tell more people about them.
Click here for a document containing information on supports and services available locally and nationally, and for links to a range of booklets and leaflets on suicide, self-harm, suicide bereavement and mental health.
Most of these materials can also be ordered and delivered free of charge from the mental health section of www.healthpromotion.ie/publications.
By Leona Conroy Fri 10th Sep
