Ep.19 Suicide Prevention Strategies

Today's 'takeaway coffee' is a quick insight into suicide prevention strategies to mark World Suicide Prevention Day (on September 10th.)   I share my top 6 strategies for maintaining your own mindset as well as supporting other people who may be in emotional distress. These are based on my own experiences of managing my own suicidal feelings over a ten-year period. I’ve also collated some of the main points that I’ve gathered from experts in suicide prevention, including academics and crisis care providers.   First, I’d like to make an important distinction:   We only have INFLUENCE over other people. We only have AGENCY over ourselves.     So I’ve split these prevention strategies into SELF STRATEGIES – steps we can take to manage our own mental health, and SUPPORTIVE STRATEGIES – things we can do to support other people.   SELF STRATEGIES: - Use social media intentionally  - Empty the thoughts out of your head - Invest in your mental health   SUPPORTIVE STRATEGIES - Offer help without drama - LISTEN. Fiercely and non-judgementally  - Signpost strategies, experts and resources     Welcome to Dark Coffee, the podcast that starts engaging and approachable conversations around mental health.     Join wellbeing advocate Alice Lyons as she attempts to normalise the conversation around mental health, from suicide to satisfaction and everything in between. Dark Coffee aims to create a safe space to explore dark topics with curiosity, compassion and courage to empower people to build their mental strength, resilience and sense of connection. Join the conversation by sharing this episode, subscribing to the podcast or following Alice on Linked In.   Your reviews will help Dark Coffee reach more people. If you like what you've heard, please consider leaving a review to help spread the conversation further.   Suicide and Emotional Support Organisations - UK   Samaritans: Confidential suicide discussion and emotional support. Free helpline available round the clock. Text - 116123.  Call - 08457 909090  Email -  jo@samaritans.org. Website - www.samaritans.org Mind: Support and information for anyone suffering from a mental health issue. 0300 123 3393 Website - Mind.org.uk Saneline: Practical information, crisis care and emotional support to people affected by mental health concerns. Helpline: 0845 767 8000, open daily from 6pm – 11pm.   For enquiries, or to become a contributor to the podcast, please email talk@darkcoffee.co.uk