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Uniting with everyone in Greater Manchester to inspire hope

Uniting with everyone in Greater Manchester to inspire hope

Today, Friday 10 September is World Suicide Prevention Day and the start of Greater Manchester's Month of Hope, which runs until World Mental Health Day on 10 October.

Now in its third year, the month is about raising awareness of suicide by encouraging everyone to have open conversations about and play a role in preventing suicide, while inspiring hope across the Greater Manchester region.

We were touched by the stories of Andrea, Will, Darran, and Sam, who'd all struggled with suicidal thoughts.

While each story is completely unique, opening up and talking to others becomes a common thread in changing their lives for the better. You can watch them below:
 

Andrea's story:
“I phoned Samaritans, that was probably the first time I’d spoken honestly about how I was feeling.”

Andrea was struggling with suicidal thoughts until she contacted Samaritans. Now she’s a suicide intervention tutor.

 

Will's story:
Following Will’s fathers’ suicide, he struggled with depression, PTSD and drug addiction.

Now Will is dedicated to helping others and runs a weekly peer support group.

 

Darran's story:
Darran struggled with suicidal thoughts but found hope after speaking to Samaritans (www.samaritans.org)

If you’re thinking about suicide, you don’t have to struggle with difficult feelings alone.

 

Sam's story:
After struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts, Sam joined a local man’s club to get the support he needed to overcome his feelings of suicide.

Sam’s sharing his story of hope to encourage others to open up.
  
 

Judd Skelton, Chair of Greater Manchester Suicide Prevention Programme Board said: “The Month of Hope is about spreading hope across our city-region. Last year, more than 200 people took their lives in Greater Manchester and that’s why this month and the Shining a Light on Suicide Campaign are so important.

“You don’t have to be a healthcare professional to help someone who is feeling suicidal – you just need to ask and listen. I would encourage everyone to take part in the Learn to Save a Life training. It only takes 20 minutes and it will help you feel more confident to ask someone if they are struggling with suicidal thoughts.”

More information about what’s on this month and details of local support are here: https://shiningalightonsuicide.org.uk/take-part-in-this-years-greater-manchester-month-of-hope/

You're never alone. Support is available:

If you’re struggling to cope call Samaritans on 116 123 or text Shout on 85258.

If you’re bereaved by suicide, you don’t need to deal with your grief alone. Greater Manchester Bereavement Service can find the right support for you. Visit: www.greater-manchester-bereavement-service.org.uk.