World Suicide Prevention Day

Suicidal thoughts can be complex, frightening and confusing. But they’re more common than many of us realise and 1 in 5 of us will experience them.

People experiencing suicidal thoughts might be going through a range of emotions, including feeling trapped, overwhelmed, like a burden, or hopeless.

Everyone copes and reacts in their own way, but there may be signs that someone is struggling to cope and having suicidal feelings.

Some signs to look out for include when someone is:

• Distancing themselves or not replying to messages
• Talking about feeling worthless, hopeless or trapped
• Not doing the things they usually enjoy
• Finding day-to-day tasks difficult

How to spot the signs that someone might be struggling to cope.

Maybe you have a friend or family member who is struggling to cope, and you don’t know how to support them. Or perhaps you’ve noticed that someone is acting differently and want to check if things are OK.

Let them know that you’re here for them and that if they’re going through a tough time, they can turn to Samaritans too.

Anyone in the UK and Ireland can call Samaritans free, day or night, on 116 123. Our trained volunteers support people by phone, email, letter and face-to-face in some local branches. We also have a helpline for Welsh speakers.

How to speak to a Samaritans volunteer

If you’re worried about someone, reach out to them. Ask how they’re feeling and show that you care.

Once someone starts to share how they’re feeling, it’s important to listen without judgement. Ask how they’re doing, using open questions that need more than a yes or no answer, such as “How do you feel?” or “What’s that like for you?” Try not to jump in with your advice or opinions.

Don’t be afraid to ask someone if they’re having suicidal thoughts. 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.

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. 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

Learn more about how to support someone who’s having suicidal thoughts.

1 in 5 of us will struggle with suicidal thoughts in our lifetime. But the stigma attached to suicide can prevent people from getting the support they need.

A poll* from Samaritans revealed that nearly three-quarters (71%) of UK adults are unaware just how many people experience suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives. And while 74% of people are comfortable talking with family and friends about mental health and wellbeing, only 45% are comfortable talking about suicidal thoughts.

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.

* Opinium survey conducted between 9-13th February 2024, with a nationally representative sample of 2,001 UK adults.

I'm standing with @Samaritans this #WorldSuicidePreventionDay 💚

Only 45% of people are comfortable talking about suicidal thoughts - it's time we change that.

Find out more about how you can be part of this change 👉 https://bit.ly/34sfcMK

I'm standing with @SamaritansCharity this #WorldSuicidePreventionDay 💚

Only 45% of people are comfortable talking about suicidal thoughts - it's time we change that.

Find out more about how you can be part of this change 👉 https://bit.ly/34sfcMK