Suicidal Thoughts

If you think someone is in immediate danger or has harmed themselves, call 999 or take them to A&E if it is safe to do so.

If someone needs urgent crisis support and does not think they can cope, make sure they are not on their own. You can call the Nottinghamshire Crisis Line 24/7 on 0808 196 3779 or the Samaritans on 116 123 (24/7). You can also call their GP and ask for an emergency appointment.

SHOUT: is a free, confidential, anonymous text support service for anyone struggling to cope. Available 24/7. Text SHOUT to 85258.

If someone is having thoughts about suicide…

If someone you know is feeling down and can see no way out, or if they are thinking of killing themselves, let them know there is help out there for them. Lots of people have felt like this and have been able to get help and support, and they can too.

Talk to them and make sure they’re not on their own. If they don’t want to talk to you, encourage them to talk to someone else they trust. There are lots of helplines they can phone or text – check out our Get Help Now links further down on this page.

People can have suicidal thoughts for lots of different reasons.  Some of the most common reasons are:

• deep depression and sadness
• feeling helpless or worthless
• feeling overwhelmed by what’s happening in your life, and like there’s no way out
• an important relationship ending
• someone you love dying, especially if they took their own life
• feeling angry and that things can’t change
• chronic pain or physical health problems
• life experiences

What can I do to help?

• Stay calm and encourage them to talk to you about what’s going on for them. You can really help by just being there, listening and giving support
• Encourage the person to get help, maybe offer to go with them
• Try and find out whether they have an intent or plan to attempt suicide. They might have thought about how, when and where to do it.
• They might get angry with you or tell you that you don’t understand. It is important to try not to take this personally
• If you feel confident enough, you could support them to make a safety plan.
• If someone they know has recently died by suicide, check in with them regularly. This is a time when people are more vulnerable to suicide themselves. The Tomorrow Project can offer support to anyone bereaved or affected by suicide. You can call them on 0115 880 0280, or email Bereavement@tomorrowproject.org.uk
• It can be difficult to look after someone who is having difficulties. It is important for you to look after yourself too. You may not always be able to be there for them, and that’s okay.

It may be useful for your team to do some training around understanding suicide awareness. Find free training from Harmless and The Zero Suicide Alliance.

Suicidal thoughts and feelings don’t look the same for everyone, this video from Calm explains more:

This video from Samaritans looks at the importance of small talk:

The Nottinghamshire and Nottingham Suicide Prevention webpage includes information and resources for professionals. This includes information on the local Suicide Prevention Charter. This charter sets out the voice of people with lived experiences, and the values and principles which are important to them. We ask organisations, partners and stakeholders to pledge their support and commitment to the Charter.