Events aimed at tackling suicide in NW

The launch marked World Suicide Prevention Day on Saturday and will run beyond World Mental Health Day on Monday, October 10.

Debbie Hunter, Health Improvement Officer for the Western Trust said: “The Western Trust recognises that suicide affects everyone and there is a shared responsibility to do all we can to prevent it.

“This year we have organised a number of events to showcase the good work taking place across the Western area and to highlight what is being done here to prevent suicide and promote good mental health. Copies of the calendar of events are available on the Western Trust website at www.westerntrust.hscni.net.”

The Health Improvement Department of the Western Trust are facilitating a number of training courses relating to promoting mental health and preventing suicide including ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training), Safe Talk, Mental Health First Aid and Self esteem builders classes.

A conference called ‘Virtual lives’, which will examine the impact of new technology on the emotional health and well-being of young people, will be held in October.

The month of events ends with a SingToncity workshop to promote and experience the healing benefits of song through vibrational healing at the Mental Health conference in Magee University, Londonderry on 28 October.

Brendan Bonner, Head of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement (West), Public Health Agency (PHA), and chair of the Western Suicide Strategy Implementation Group endorsed the calendar of events.

He said: “The PHA recognises that suicide is a hugely complex issue and we are greatly concerned that a growing number of people are responding to life’s difficulties by self-harming and taking their life by suicide.

“As a result we wish to play an active role in supporting a range of initiatives that will help to support those in need to help sustain life.

“The calendar of events is reflective of the investment we are making in the Western area to prevent suicide and promote mental health.”

If you are in distress or despair counsellors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through Lifeline (0808 808 8000) to listen to you and give you the help and support you need, in confidence.