Researchers collaborate to prevent suicide
Monday September 9, 2024
World Suicide Prevention Day, September 10, is a good reminder to all that suicides are preventable.
With around 350 deaths by suspected suicide across our region every year, which is way above the national average, the North East North Cumbria Suicide and Self-Harm Research Collaborative has been brought together with a commitment to a vision that one suicide is one too many.
The collaborative brings together regional university partners, health and care system providers and people with personal experience to help prevent suicides and reduce self-harm across our region. It is led by Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust (CNTW), as part of its role within Newcastle Health Research Partnership (NHIP).
Today is an important reminder to work together to prevent suicide, raise awareness and encourage conversations. It’s also a reminder that we can do this every day.
Talking about suicide to someone you’re worried about can be really difficult. These resources can help you understand what to say and how you can help:
- Samaritans’ website has plenty of advice on how to talk to someone, either online or in-person, who is struggling. You can also call the Samaritans helpline for free any time on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
- Zero Suicide Alliance offers free training to help people gain the knowledge and confidence to talk to someone who may be feeling suicidal. Zero Suicide Alliance (ZSA)
- If you or someone else need urgent mental health support you can call one of CNTW’s Crisis Teams, text numbers are available for people who are Deaf and/or have communication difficulties – https://www.cntw.nhs.uk/need-help-now/
- You can also access resources at the following websites: www.every-life-matters.org.uk, www.wellbeingandcoping.net and www.stayingsafe.net.
If you or another person have been harmed or are at immediate risk, call 999.
If you’re struggling right now, that’s ok. Be kind to yourself and ask for help from someone you trust or use one of the resources above.