If you are struggling with depression, or are experiencing suicidal thoughts, there are things you can do:

 

Tell someone. Let your friends or family know how you are feeling. Sharing a burden allows others to support you. If you are uncomfortable talking to close friends or family, call your GP and ask for an emergency consultation or appointment. Call 111 for out of hours support.

 

If you do not feel like talking, coping mechanisms are important. Think about getting through today, not about the future. Find a safe place. Remember, drugs and alcohol are not solutions. Surround yourself with supportive friends, family or whoever you feel safe with and are comfortable around. If you have something you enjoy doing or experiencing, do that to distract yourself. Avoid triggers.

 

If you have concerns for someone who has expressed depressive or suicidal thoughts, ensure that they are not alone. Do not tell them to cheer up, as doing so may not be easy for them. Be compassionate and encourage them to talk about their feelings; understand that a problem for them might not be a problem to you, but they still need your support. If you believe someone is in immediate danger, ensure they are safely with someone or allow them to talk about their feelings with you. Compassion and reassurance are important.

 

The following services are available if you have any concerns, either for yourself or for someone you know:

 

Samaritans: 116 123

Text Shout to 85258

MindInfoline: 0300 123 3393

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): 0800 58 58 58

 

On average, 800, 000 people a year commit suicide globally. Even one person is too many.