A Yorkshire-based mental health and suicide prevention Community Interest Company has unveiled a free resource in observance of World Suicide Prevention Day on 10th September 2024.
The guide, crafted by the organisation, aims to dispel the myths surrounding suicide and provides actionable steps to help those experiencing suicidal thoughts. Launched this year by Leeds-based entrepreneur Ellie MacDonald, the company offers mental health and suicide prevention training for businesses, communities, and individuals. It actively campaigns for greater awareness and strives to reduce the stigma that prevents people from speaking openly and getting the support they need.
Suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50 and individuals under 35 in the UK. Recent statistics from the Office for National Statistics indicate that there were 6,069 suicide-related deaths in 2023, the highest number recorded since 1999. The organisation was established in response to the tragic loss of Ellie MacDonald’s father to suicide when she was just four years old in 1989.
Ellie MacDonald, founder and CEO, commented: “It took over 30 years to understand the impact my dad’s suicide had on me. Nobody dared talk about it, and sadly, the stigma is still pervasive. Shockingly, this has not changed much at all. Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in our country, yet prevention efforts are minimal. I spent two years sourcing the best training to create this organisation and bring essential, life-saving training to the masses, empowering and equipping ordinary people to help make a positive difference.”
This year’s theme for World Suicide Prevention Day is ‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide.’ The organisation aligns perfectly with this theme, with Ellie emphasising the significance of initiating conversations. She explains, “Our guide of hope offers actionable steps to support a loved one, colleague, or even a stranger who may be struggling. Simple actions such as checking in on someone who doesn’t seem quite right can make a significant difference.”
The guide includes contact details of organisations that offer support for those experiencing suicidal thoughts, as well as useful advice for workplaces, communities, and self-care. To access the guide, visit the organisation’s website.
The newly released guide serves as a vital resource in the ongoing effort to address suicide and provide support to those in need. By offering practical steps and resources, the organisation aims to foster a supportive community where individuals feel empowered to talk openly about their struggles.