Pieta launches Signs of Suicide campaign
By Geraldine Fitzgerald
Many young men pretend they’re fine at home. They won’t talk to their parents, but they will open up in a safe space where they feel accepted and normal, and where banter can be interlaced with a real chat about the big things going on in their lives.
Many young men have great relationships with their barbers and consider this a safe space to talk freely. Pieta has partnered with Sam’s Barbers to help reach young men in a space where are comfortable talking about issues in their own lives.
Signs of Suicide is a public awareness resource created to help family or friends support someone who may be at risk of self-harm or suicide. Pieta is urging everyone to be aware of the Signs of Suicide, so that you can help a loved one feeling blocked in by their own consuming thoughts and look towards feelings of hope.
Pieta therapists found that most people who talk about suicide do not want to die, and perhaps don’t quite grasp the finality of that act. They simply want to stop all the pain they’re feeling. Knowing some of the signs to listen and watch out for is the first step in helping someone.
Signs to look out for include:
· Sleep disturbance
· Isolation
· Giving way possessions
· No interest in anything
· Speaking of no future
Leigh Kenny, Regional Manager and Therapist with Pieta, said: “January can be a particularly difficult time of the year for people struggling with their mental health but these struggles aren’t limited to a month or day of the year.
“However, it is a great opportunity to highlight that it’s ok not to feel ok sometimes and the best thing you can do is talk about your feelings, whether that be with your family, friends or even your barber.
“We encourage everyone to ‘swap the small talk for the big talk’ and watch out for the signs in your loved ones – knowing the signs of suicide could save a life. If you think someone you know is struggling, then follow the three simple steps of APR – Ask, Persuade and Refer. At Pieta we have trained professionals waiting to help.”
If someone talks to you openly, don’t be afraid to Ask them directly if they are thinking of suicide or want to kill themselves. Even just listening is one of the most powerful tools available.
Once you have asked the question, calmly and gently Persuade them to seek help or to allow you to assist them in getting help. As soon as you can, Refer or guide them to Pieta – if you can, make the call with them or travel with them to the appointment.
Pieta’s professional counsellors specialise in suicide prevention and tackling self-harm. The charity has centres all over Ireland, all free of charge with no referral needed.
How to contact Pieta: visit www.pieta.ie for all centre contact details and the National Therapy Services phoneline on 0818-111126.
Pieta provides 24/7 support – if you are suicidal, self-harming or bereaved, you can contact Pieta 24/7 via the Freephone crisis helpline on 1800-247247, you can also text HELP to 51444 (standard message rates apply).