A powerful new video campaign to encourage people to talk more openly about suicide launches on Sunday 10 September, World Suicide Prevention Day.
The campaign - 'Let's Talk' – comprises a series of compelling videos that are designed around familiar scenarios that may resonate with people experiencing suicidal thoughts, as well as their friends and families, and to guide them towards available assistance.
The campaign will also feature on outdoor billboards to encourage individuals to recognise the signs of someone who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts and “to ask if they’re ok” and signpost them to support.
The Suicide Prevention North Lanarkshire campaign is throwing its backing to the awareness day, by asking people to reach out to those in need and encourage conversation about this vital issue.
Councillor Louise Roarty, Depute Leader of the council explained: "We are committed to extending awareness about the critical issue of suicide prevention. Our goal is to ensure that the message that help is available reaches as many people as possible.
"If you are concerned about someone – whether it's a friend, family member, or colleague – asking them openly about their feelings can make all the difference. Encouraging open conversations about suicide can have a significant impact and save lives.
“This new campaign encourages family members, friends and colleagues to ask if a person they’re worried about is ok. And to ask again. It’s vital we all play a role if concerned about someone’s safety.”
The campaign which is aimed at 35 to 55 year olds, one of the main age groups affected by suicide, will run from Sunday 10 September for four weeks.
As part of Suicide Prevention Awareness Week, which starts on Sunday, the council will also be hosting a special football tournament at Ravenscraig on Wednesday 13 September to help raise awareness and funds for the Samaritans charity.