September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, challenge stigma and remind people that they do not have to face difficult thoughts and feelings alone.

Talking about suicide can feel uncomfortable. We may worry about saying the wrong thing, asking the wrong question, or making things worse.

But sometimes, simply being willing to start a conversation can make a real difference.

You don’t have to have all the answers

When someone is struggling, it can be difficult to know what to say. You don’t need to have the perfect words or be able to solve everything for them.

You can start simply:

“How are you really doing?”

“I’ve noticed you don’t seem yourself lately. Do you want to talk?”

“I’m here to listen.”

Giving someone the opportunity to talk openly, without judgement, can help them feel less alone.

If someone tells you that they are having thoughts about suicide, take them seriously. You don’t need to try to fix everything yourself. Listen, stay with them where possible, and encourage them to seek professional support.

Sometimes the signs aren’t obvious

There isn’t one single sign that tells us someone may be experiencing suicidal thoughts. People can respond to emotional distress in very different ways.

Someone might become withdrawn, lose interest in things they normally enjoy, experience changes in their sleep or appetite, feel increasingly hopeless, or say that they feel like a burden.

Sometimes, however, there may be no obvious signs at all.

That’s why checking in with the people around us matters.

A message, a phone call, a cup of tea or simply asking someone how they are can be a small act of kindness that lets them know they are not alone.

Looking after your own mental health matters too

Suicide prevention isn’t only about responding when someone reaches crisis point. It is also about creating communities where people feel able to talk about their mental health before things become overwhelming.

That means making space for conversations about loneliness, anxiety, depression, grief, financial worries, relationship difficulties and other experiences that can affect our wellbeing.

It also means recognising when we need support ourselves.

Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It is a positive step towards looking after your mental health.

At EDAMH, we know that everyone’s journey is different. We provide emotional, practical and social support to adults experiencing mental ill health in East Dunbartonshire. Our support includes individual and group support, alongside specialist services.

If you’re struggling, you don’t have to wait until things become unbearable before reaching out.

What can you do this Suicide Prevention Month?

There are simple things all of us can do:

  • Check in with someone you are worried about.
  • Listen without judgement and give them space to talk.
  • Take conversations about suicide seriously.
  • Encourage professional support when someone is struggling.
  • Look after your own wellbeing and recognise when you need help.
  • Learn about local mental health services so you know where to turn when support is needed.

Most importantly, remember that you don’t need to be an expert to show someone that you care.

Sometimes the most important thing we can say is:

“I’m here. You don’t have to go through this on your own.”

If you need support

You can contact our team on 0141 955 3040, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, or email info@edamh.org.uk. Self-referrals are welcome.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can also contact Samaritans free on 116 123, at any time, day or night.

For urgent mental health help in Scotland, you can call NHS 24 on 111. If someone is in immediate danger or cannot be kept safe, call 999 or go to A&E.

You matter. Your feelings matter. And support is available.