10/09/2026
September 10th is World Su***de Prevention Day
You will see a great deal of posts in support of this around this date.
Unfortunately, we can all feel down, unseen, unknown, unvalued, hopeless, experience guilt or shame and invisible at any time of year. It is possible to feel as though we are dragging other people down with us.
It is hard to know where to turn, who to speak to or what to do if this is the case.
Friends and family members may not be aware of what to look for. After all, we all cope differently and are experts in hiding feelings in many ways. This could be missing or avoiding gatherings, being busy or avoiding any contact altogether.
Signs to look out for are change in sleep patterns, appearance, appetite, hygiene, not being available in general, giving away possessions, missing work, self-destructive behaviours (drinking too much, taking drugs, gambling, taking unnecessary risks), self-harm and searching for ways to end life.
If you notice that someone who has had a low mood for an extended period and now is calm, collected and at peace, it could be a sign that a decision has been made.
Help is out there. This is not an exhaustive list, however, please see the following resources: -
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/where-to-get-urgent-help-for-mental-health/
Via your GP
Going to A&E
In an emergency, calling 999.
https://www.samaritans.org/
https://www.mind.org.uk/
Training to help build confidence in talking to those in distress is available here (please also do your own search): -
https://www.zerosuicidealliance.com/suicide-awareness-training
https://alison.com/course/family-resource-centre-suicide-prevention-code-of-practice
You may need urgent help for mental health for many different reasons. Some people call it a crisis, an emergency or a breakdown. It's important to know that support is available, whatever you're going through.