Take a minute: Change a life. World Suicide Prevention Day 10th September 2017

Local mental health charity Hull and East Yorkshire Mind is marking World Suicide Prevention day this year by encouraging people to light a candle, or by attending an event they are organising.

Every year over 6000 people die through suicide, and Yorkshire and the Humber is the region in England with the highest suicide rate.

This year’s theme for World Suicide Prevention Day is ‘Take a minute: change a life’, and Hull and East Yorkshire Mind wants to encourage more people to talk openly about the problem of suicide.

David Smith, Chief Executive at Hull and East Yorkshire Mind, said “Talking about the problem of suicide is still seen as taboo, and yet talking can make a huge difference.

“This year’s theme, take a minute: change a life, is all about taking the time to talk, and to listen to anyone we are concerned about. We can help someone who is considering suicide by looking out for anything that shows they are trying to tell us about it; asking them if they are considering suicide; listening; and keeping them safe.

“Many people in our area are affected by suicide- they may have lost a loved one, considered it themselves, or know someone who struggles with thoughts of suicide.

“We are asking people to join us this World Suicide Prevention Day to raise awareness about how we can prevent suicide, to remember a lost loved one, and to look out for survivors of suicide.”

Hull and East Yorkshire Mind is encouraging people to light a candle at 8pm on Sunday 10th September for World Suicide Prevention Day. Or to join us from 7.30pm at All Saints Church Hessle where we will take time to reflect and light a candle.

Everyone is welcome, of all faiths or none.

If possible, please RSVP to info@heymind.org.uk or 01482 240200.