Today is World Suicide Prevention Day & this year’s theme is ‘Creating Hope through Action’.
Suicide is a far-reaching issue which profoundly affects so many people in our society. The most recently published figures showed that in 2021, 237 people in Northern Ireland were recorded as having lost their lives to suicide. Sadly, this is the tip of the iceberg. There are many more deaths that are not recorded as suicide. When someone loses their life, there is also such a ripple effect on families, friends and communities. It is a public health priority & urgent action is needed. This cannot go on. Suicide is preventable. Every single person deserves a future, and there is always hope.
Visit this link to find out more about this campaign & how you can get involved:
https://www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/world-suicide-prevention-day/
We would like to send a message to all of our young people and supporters. If you are struggling with thoughts of ending your life, there is always hope. We are never as alone as we think we are and there are so many organisations and individuals, MACS included, who are ready and willing to help you find your way out of the darkness. You deserve to live and no matter how tough things feel right now, it can and will get better 💛
If you are in crisis & need some support:
📞 Lifeline have trained counsellors available 24/7. Just call 0800 808 8000
👂 Whatever you are going through, Samaritans also offer a listening ear 24/7 on 116 123
📱 If you find it hard to talk on the phone, you can text SHOUT to 85258
#WorldSuicidePreventionDay #WSPD #WSPD23