Together we stay stronger "It's ok not to be ok" Tragically in 2018 there were 6,507 suicides registered in the UK alone. That is one death from suicide approximately every 45 minutes. The highest suicide rate is in men aged between 45 and 50, and every day 2 construction workers will take their own life. Yet suicide is still a taboo subject and this needs to change. We want to help reduce the stigma surrounding suicide and help prevent any further unnecessary deaths, which is why we are actively supporting World Suicide Prevention Day on Thursday 10 September 2020. World Suicide Prevention Day aims to improve education and start the conversation about suicide and to show that suicide is preventable and recovery is possible. We can all help make a difference.
Take a minute for others Talking about the fact that we all have mental health, sometimes it's good and sometimes it's poor, and recognising that this is part of who we are, can help to normalise the conversation around the topic. Take a minute to reach out to someone in your community, maybe a family member, friend, colleague or even a stranger. It could change the course of another’s life. Take a minute to notice what is going on with your family, your friends and your colleagues. Do they seem their usual self? Take a minute to reach out and start a conversation if you notice something is different. Ask the question 'How are you?' Take a minute to find out what help is available for both you and others. You can also take part in the Light a Candle event in which participants Light a Candle near a window at 8pm on World Suicide Prevention Day as a symbol of support for suicide prevention, and for many it is a means of remembering a loved one. For more information, please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention's website.
Things you can do to improve your own mental health If you are feeling less in control of your mental health, it is important to take care of all areas of your body and mind as this in turn will assist you in having good mental health. Eat healthier: Our brain needs a mix of nutrients to stay healthy and function well, just like the other organs in your body. Sleep: You need about seven to eight hours of sleep a night, but most of us get about five to six. So go to bed an hour earlier if you can. Those extra minutes can help improve your health. Alcohol: We often drink alcohol to change our mood. Some people drink to deal with fear or loneliness, but the effect is only temporary. When the drink wears off, you feel worse because of the way alcohol withdrawal symptoms affect your brain and the rest of your body. Drinking is not a good way to manage difficult feelings. Drugs: Many people use drugs or other substances to change how they feel. But, again, the effects are short-lived. Just like alcohol, the more you use, the more you crave. Exercise: Moderate exercise can do wonders for your mental health and self-esteem. If you are feeling low, go for a 20 minute brisk walk. It’s been proven that 20 minutes of walking can change your mood. Tell someone - this is the most important and impactful thing you can do. Talking to someone about how you are feeling is the biggest thing you can do to improve your mental health. A friend, family member or counselor if needed. You don’t need to feel the way you do and there are lots of people willing to listen. The NHS also promote '5 steps to your mental wellbeing'. Click here for further information.