Brave stories of suicide could save young lives

A North West-based charity has launched a powerful video campaign to show how suicide can touch the lives of everyone.

Ten people share personal stories of grief and loss and explain why it is so important to talk openly about suicide.

PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide says the campaign To My Fellow sends out a positive message of hope.

Moving videos feature parents whose children took their own lives, bereaved siblings and those who have lost close friends to suicide.

Ged Flynn, Chief Executive of PAPYRUS, which has its head office in Warrington, said: “These are the stories of the bereaved, those who have had thoughts of suicide, those who have tried to take their own lives and those who have supported loved ones who are struggling with life.

“Everyone’s story is different. When you watch and listen you will be struck by the pain and devastation of lives lost to suicide.

“The videos illustrate that suicide doesn’t discriminate. How people of all ages, race, gender and background are susceptible to suicidal thought and behaviour.”
 

To My Fellow also features videos of a faith leader, an artist, a migrant and a counsellor, each delivering a personal message.

Helen, a mother, tells how one of her three children started having suicidal thoughts at the age of 14. Thanks to the continuing support of the family, her daughter went on to university, has a professional career and is busy making a life for herself.
 

Ged Flynn said: “I would like to thank everyone who agreed to take part in this campaign and bravely share their experiences of suicide.

“The videos emphasise the need for us all to talk about suicide, to open-up and create safe places where our children and young people can share their thoughts and fears.

“We need to be having open and honest conversations, reassuring them that they are supported, that they don’t need to struggle alone and they can reach out for help.”

To My Fellow can be viewed on the PAPYRUS website: www.papyrus-uk.org/to-my-fellow/

The charity says it plans to produce more videos throughout the campaign.

Help and support

HOPELINEUK is the charity’s confidential helpline service providing practical advice and support to young people with thoughts of suicide and anyone concerned about a young person who may have thoughts of suicide.

HOPELINEUK is staffed by trained professionals, offering a telephone, text and email service.

For practical, confidential suicide prevention help and advice please contact PAPYRUS HOPELINEUK on 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org

For more details about the online HOPELINK service, visit:

• www.papyrus-uk.org/hopelink/