Devon urged to talk openly about suicide as World Suicide Prevention Day approaches
People across Devon are being encouraged to help change the way suicide is talked about by learning how to recognise when someone may be struggling and having open, supportive conversations.
Public Health Devon is using World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10 to encourage residents to take simple steps that could help prevent suicide, including completing free awareness training, learning about local support and checking in with friends, family, neighbours and colleagues.
This year's World Suicide Prevention Day theme, "Changing the Narrative on Suicide", aims to encourage honest conversations about suicide and mental health, reduce stigma and create an environment where people feel able to ask for help.
Suicide remains a significant public health issue in Devon. The county has a suicide rate of 13.5 deaths per 100,000 people, significantly higher than the England average, while almost three-quarters of those who die by suicide are men.
The figures highlight the importance of ensuring people feel able to talk about how they are feeling and know where to turn for support.
For Devon's predominantly rural communities, mental health pressures can be particularly challenging. Isolation, financial pressures and the demands of working in agriculture can all contribute to stress and make it more difficult for people to seek help.
This is particularly relevant to the county's farming communities, where concerns over animal disease, extreme weather, financial uncertainty and the future of farming can add to existing pressures.
Recent challenges including drought and Bluetongue have placed additional strain on farmers and rural families. Organisations such as the Farming Community Network provide confidential support to people involved in farming who may be struggling.
Steve Brown, Director of Public Health and Communities at Devon County Council, said: "World Suicide Prevention Day is an important opportunity to remind people that suicide prevention is everybody's business.
"We know that talking openly about suicide and mental health can feel difficult, but those conversations can make a real difference. By taking the time to listen, show compassion and connect someone with support, we can help people feel less alone.
" Across Devon, we are working with partners to improve understanding of suicide, reduce stigma and improve access to support. We want people to know that help is available and that every one of us can play a role in creating a more supportive, understanding and connected community."
Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Devon County Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health, Communities and Equality, said: "Suicide can affect anyone, and its impact can be devastating for families, friends and communities.
"As a predominantly rural county, we know that isolation and loneliness can be a reality for many people across Devon, particularly within our farming communities where suicide rates remain a serious concern. Recent challenges such as the drought and bluetongue have put additional pressure on farmers and rural families, and at times it can feel overwhelming, but they have also encouraged more conversations about wellbeing and the importance of supporting one another.
"I'd encourage everyone to check in with their neighbours, friends and family, and not be afraid to talk openly about how they're feeling. Sometimes all it takes is picking up the phone to a trusted friend or supportive person, having a conversation and knowing you’re not alone.
"Organisations like the Farming Community Network provide invaluable support, and I would encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out. This World Suicide Prevention Day, let's all play our part in creating a Devon where people feel able to talk, seek help and support each other."
Public Health Devon is encouraging people to learn how to respond if they are concerned about someone. The free Zero suicide prevention training provides basic guidance on recognising signs that someone may be struggling and starting a conversation - https://www.zerosuicidealliance.com/suicide-awareness-training-courses
More advanced courses, including Connect 5, Youth Connect 5 and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), are also available free through Devon's mental health, suicide prevention and training programme - https://www.devon.gov.uk/public-health/resources-insights-data/training-and-cpd/mental-health-and-wellbeing-and-suicide-prevention-training/what-is-available-in-devon/
Devon also provides practical resources including an “It’s OK to talk about Suicide” guide - https://www.devon.gov.uk/public-health/healthy-adults/suicide-prevention/its-ok-to-talk-about-suicide/
and a Personal Safety Plan - https://www.devon.gov.uk/public-health/healthy-adults/suicide-prevention/a-safety-plan-resource-for-devon/
The Safety Plan helps people identify warning signs, coping strategies and sources of support to use during difficult periods or a mental health crisis.
Public Health Devon also promotes the Five Ways to Wellbeing – connecting with others, being active, taking notice, continuing to learn and giving to others – as simple ways of supporting positive mental wellbeing.
Information about local mental health services in Devon - https://www.devon.gov.uk/public-health/healthy-adults/mental-health/ - and NHS wellbeing advice through Every Mind Matters - https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/ - is also available online.
Anyone worried about their own mental health, or that of someone else, is being encouraged not to wait until things reach crisis point before seeking support. Sometimes a simple question, a listening ear or a phone call can be the first step towards getting help.