We all struggle to cope sometimes, and one in five of us have experienced suicidal thoughts at some point in our lives. But suicide can be prevented and we can all play a part.
Samaritans is tackling stigma through stories of hope. Join us to reduce the number of lives lost to suicide.
We believe in tomorrow, and together we can save lives.
How you can support those around you
Start a conversation
By talking more openly about the struggles we face, together we can break down the barriers that can prevent people from getting the support they need.
Conversations about mental health and suicide can feel daunting, but when someone is carrying around worries and difficult thoughts, having someone there to listen can make all the difference.
You don’t have to be an expert to help someone open up about how they feel. The fact that you care is what matters.
Here are some tips to help you be there for your friends, family, and colleagues.
Listening tips
Show you care
Focus on the other person, make eye contact, and put away your phone. To really listen to someone, you need to give them your full attention.
Have patience
It may take time and a few attempts before a person is ready to open up. Listening well is about creating trust with the other person. Don’t try to fill a pause in the conversation – they might need some time to find the words for how they’re feeling.
Use open questions
Use open questions that need more than a yes or no answer. Try ‘how are you feeling today?’ and follow up with ‘tell me more…’ An open-ended question gives them space to express themselves, without jumping in with your own ideas about how they may be feeling.
Say it back
Check you’ve understood, but don’t interrupt or offer a solution. Repeating something back to someone is a really good way to let them know you’re listening.
Have courage
Try not to be put off by a negative response and remember, you don’t have to fill every silence. If they don’t want to talk right now, just let them know you're there if they ever want to talk.
Don’t be afraid to ask someone if they’re having suicidal thoughts. It gives them permission to tell you how they feel.
More support
If you’re worried about someone, stay with them and just let them know you're there.
Let them know that they can call Samaritans free, day or night, on 116 123.
If you think it’s an emergency or they’ve tried to harm themselves – call 999 in the UK or 112 in Ireland.
And remember to look after yourself, Samaritans is here to support you too.
Messages of hope
Small actions can have a big impact on somebody’s day, whether it’s a message to say ‘I’m here for you’ or a few kind and encouraging words.
That’s why we've encouraged people to share their messages of hope and support for anyone who's going through a tough time.
Share stories of hope
Stories are a powerful way of showing us that we’re not alone. This collection of personal experiences shows what can happen if we reach out for support when we’re going through a tough time and the impact that your support can have on those you care about.
"You are strong, you are brave"
Read Dan's story
“You don’t need to be perfect, just be you”
Read Sophie’s story
“Always remember you are loved”
Read Ian's story
“You are never alone, pick up the phone”
Read Rebekah’s story
“There’s no shame if you’re struggling"
Read Bella’s story
“Reach out to someone”
Read Kelly’s story
"Take the time to talk"
Read Alex's story
Providing emotional support at TCS London Marathon 2024
As well as tackling stigma through stories of hope, Samaritans has made sure that we’re available all day on marathon day with emotional support hubs set up along the marathon route for spectators. Our volunteers will also be available to runners after the race.
In addition to emotional support hubs, we will also have Samaritans tail walkers at the back of the pack to help set the pace and make sure that Samaritans are with runners every step of the way.
Help break the stigma
A Samaritans runner at the 2023 London Marathon
The nationwide poll also showed that:
- While 74% of people are comfortable talking with family and friends about mental health and wellbeing, only 45% are comfortable talking about suicidal thoughts.
- Barriers to opening up about suicidal thoughts include the fear of worrying others (31%), being worried about making others feel uncomfortable (27%) and fear they won’t be understood (24%).
- Two thirds (66%) of respondents also said there are things that would make them more confident in starting a conversation with someone they are worried about, including tips on how to start a conversation (37%), knowing other sources of support (35%) and tips on learning how to listen (31%).
By highlighting how suicidal thoughts are more common than people might expect, and that talking about suicidal thoughts is helpful, we can help break the stigma surrounding the subject that often prevents people from opening up.
I decided to share my story in the hope that it might normalise talking about these things and encourage someone to seek support. If I encourage one person, then it’s worth it. I’m now a shoulder to cry on among my mates and I couldn’t feel prouder of that.
Dan, who is running the 2024 TCS London Marathon for Samaritans
People who have been suicidal have often said it is a relief to talk about thoughts they are experiencing. Just being there to listen and showing you care can help. Learn more about how to support someone who’s having suicidal thoughts.
Join a challenge event
Support Samaritans and show you Believe in Tomorrow by taking part in one of our Challenge Events.