1 in 4 of us will have suicidal thoughts in our lifetime. When someone close to you is struggling, you want to show up for them. But knowing what to do? That can be tough.
- Sending a you ok? Text. That’s suicide prevention.
- Turning up on their doorstep with a pizza. That’s suicide prevention.
- Checking in with their mum, partner or bestie. That’s suicide prevention.
- Helping them write down what’s in their head. That’s suicide prevention.
- Being there when they call the GP. That’s suicide prevention.
- Handing them CALM’s helpline. That’s suicide prevention.
Suicide prevention is more than helping someone when things reach crisis point. It’s about stopping them getting there in the first place.
It’s about small acts that add up. Support systems that can take the pressure when things get too much. Knowing what to do. How to say it. Feeling awkward, but reaching out anyway. That’s what suicide prevention is.
And we can’t do it without you. If you want to show up for the people you care about but don’t know where to start, we’re here to help. CALM has advice, support and tools to give you the knowledge, understanding and skills to help someone face tomorrow.