Despite the staggering frequency of suicidal thoughts, suicidal attempts and self-harm, we are still not talking about it suidcide and suicide prevention.
Suicide is the most devastating consequence of mental ill-health and the effects are shattering. Research has found that every suicide directly affects 135 people – that’s friends, family, colleagues, and the communities in which we live.
Recessions, unemployment, loneliness, austerity measures, socio-economic status, a relationship breakdown and periods of chronic depression are just some of the factors involved in an increased risk of suicide.
When we or someone we love is suicidal, we are convinced that the seasons have stopped and will never turn again. We become stuck in a kind of psychological winter, withdrawn and frozen in hopeless thought, not able to see that things can, and will change.
Thank you to everyone that stepped forward to offer their experiences. If you’re here, we want you to first know that you are joined here by others that have felt suicidal, have struggled with suicidal thoughts or have supported someone who has felt suicidal. You are in the company of others who have been there before.
If you or someone you love is feeling suicidal, our encouragement is for you or them to seek one to one support. Don’t rely just upon signposting or very generalised advice, as it is far more nuanced than that. It deserves and requires a more bespoke space and must be tailored to your needs.
There are no single magic solutions to these situations. No size fits all. Please note that these situations are by their very nature to be considered and addressed individually.
Being a feeling human is a lot. We hope you can find something that resonates in what our community and therapists have shared.
We are so, so grateful for everyone who submitted ideas, shared their experiences and contributed to the making of these guides.
We couldn’t have done it without you.
Jodie and Chance (Founders)
