People shouldn't be afraid to talk about suicide, a Samaritans worker said as the organisation campaigns leading up to World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10.
Popping up at Glasgow Central Station on Thursday (September 7), Samaritans representatives were joined by teams from Network Rail, Breathing Space, and Railway Children to spread the word about what these vital services have to offer to those in need.
Speaking to the Glasgow Times, Arlene Dickson of Samaritans told of how the charity hopes to break down the stigma associated with talking about suicide.
The regional development lead of the Samaritans' partnership with Network Rail said: “This year, Samaritans is encouraging people not to be afraid to talk about suicidal thoughts and feelings and raise awareness of our vital 24/7 service.
“Suicide is everybody’s business and the support of our partners and groups, including Network Rail, Scotrail and Breathing Space shows we can all do our bit to look after and look out for each other.
“We can work together to be there for those struggling to cope and save lives and prevent suicide at railways."
Offering support to anyone who might need it on awareness days, Arlene also wanted people to know they can rely on Samaritans if they are worried about someone else or simply feeling lost or down.
She said: “Samaritans service is here 24/7, 365 days a year. Our phone line is free. It’s confidential. We would never ask your name or where you're from.
“It’s there for people who might need it in times of crisis. During the night, when they don’t have anyone else to speak to or just if they're feeling lonely and isolated, we are there to support them.
“You can phone Samaritans if you’re feeling down or lonely, or you’re having negative thoughts. You don’t need to be feeling suicidal.
“We’ve been receiving a lot of calls to do with people who are worried about their finances and how they're going to cope, and that’s okay.
“We’re there to listen. We’re not there to judge people, we’re just there to listen and support you and members of your family as well should they need it at that time.
“If someone in your life has been struggling and you’re not sure how to help them, you can phone Samaritans and speak to someone. That may then encourage that person to get the person in need to contact us.”
If you are struggling and want to speak to someone, please call the Samaritans on 116 123.
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