World Suicide Prevention Day takes place on 10 September each year and is an opportunity for organisations and communities around the world come together to raise awareness of how we can create a world where fewer people die by suicide.
The theme of this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day is ‘creating hope through action’, which aims to inspire confidence and hope in all of us that our actions, no matter how big or small, can provide hope to those who are struggling.
How can I create hope through action?
Reach out to someone
If you’re worried that someone you know may be struggling with their mental health it can be really hard to know what to say to them but taking a minute to reach out could save their life.
You don’t have to have all the answers, just showing your support and giving someone space to communicate their feelings can be a huge relief.
The guides from the NHS and Time To Change on having conversations about mental health are a helpful starting point.
Help tackle stigma
Reaching out to people also helps to tackle the stigma around mental health, which can be a barrier that prevents people from being open about, and seeking help for, their mental health difficulties.
When we talk more openly about mental health problems and how common they are, affecting one in four of us in any given year, we break down the barriers and create an environment in which people feel comfortable asking for help.
Mental health crisis support in Surrey and North East Hampshire
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis there are a number services in Surrey and North East Hampshire here to help.
The Mental Health Crisis Line - 0800 915 4644
The Mental Health Crisis Helpline offers telephone support for both adults and children in Surrey and North East Hampshire who are experiencing a mental health crisis. Lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you have hearing or speech difficulties dial 18001 0800 915 4644 from your Textphone or smartphone app. You can also contact us by SMS text: 07717 989024
Safe Havens
Safe Havens provide an out of hours alternative to A&E for adults experiencing a mental health crisis. There are drop-ins in five town centres across Surrey and North East Hampshire, open evenings, weekends and bank holidays. Safe Havens are provided in partnership with local third sector organisations. Visit www.sabp.nhs.uk/safehaven for more information.
CYP Havens
CYP Havens offer a safe place for 10-18 year olds to talk about their worries and mental health in a confidential, friendly and supportive environment. CYP havens are located in Guildford, Epsom, Staines and Redhill. You don’t have to call first or book an appointment; you can simply turn up during our opening times, which can be found here: www.cyphaven.net.
If someone’s life is in danger, call 999.
More information about Surrey and Borders’ support for people experiencing a mental health crisis can be found at: www.sabp.nhs.uk/help.