“Why didn’t they tell me?” is such a common refrain when we talk about suicide or mental health challenges in general. It’s easy to make this remark, because “tell someone” seems like a simple request. But in truth, it’s vague at best.

“Reaching out” is a skill we’re somehow expected to know, yet it’s never taught and rarely modelled for us.

So let’s be more specific:

Raise the damn alarm, friends, and be as direct as you need to be. An emergency is an emergency, whether it’s a heart attack or a self-harm risk. Harm to you in any form is reason enough to ask for help.

I promise you, there’s someone in this world — an old friend or a future one, a family member, a therapist, even a volunteer on a hotline — who wants you to stay.

Find that person (or people), even if it takes time. Even if you have to keep asking.

Our partner, Kaleidoscope Plus Group offers some advice on what to do if you feel suicidal and some emergency hotlines on this page of their website.

You can also access Shout 85258, which is a free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging service for anyone in the UK. It’s a place to go if you’re struggling to cope. To start a conversation, text the word ‘TeamKPG’ to 85258, then you’ll receive 4 automated messages before you’re connected to someone who will listen without judgement.

Give people the chance to help you. It’s a chance that YOU deserve.

For the full article, please click here.