Suicide Prevention Month is an important time to raise awareness and focus on bringing action against this pressing mental health crisis of our time. 1 in 4 people has had suicidal thoughts. 2025’s theme is to start conversations, to make a difference and to make people who suffer from this condition and other related conditions, such as depression and anxiety, feel heard. To interrupt their thinking patterns. So, how can we help?
Within this month, many mental health charities and organisations have tips for people to help their friends and family who may suffer from these types of thought processes. People on the Samaritans’ lived experienced panel of suicide has explained that just being able to hold a conversation with someone who you may suspect of being suicidal can help, whether the conversation is about their shoes or the weather, it can bring them out of their thoughts, with 60% of people who have these thoughts highlighting that their thoughts have been interrupted by friends and family talking with them and 14% say that their thoughts have been interrupted by a stranger. (Samaritans, 2025)
Other ways you can support others are continuing to check in with them, inviting them to join in activities, talking to them about things that they are interested in, or doing something as simple as asking them if they're okay and giving them a non-judgmental, safe space to talk about what’s on their mind, though, it is just as important not to force them to speak about their thoughts if they are not ready, but being there and supporting them may just be enough for them.
It is essential for you to take care of yourself and not to take on too much for yourself, as your mental health is just as important as your friend’s or your family member’s. There are plenty of services out there and in the university for you to talk to, for example, BNU has an independent and impartial Advice Centre through the Students’ Union to support students with any difficulties that they have and University Counselling services on campus to support you. We also offer Together all, which is a free service for students. Other services are called Samaritans that can be contacted by calling 116 123, or texting ‘shout’ to 85258; both services are completely free and available 24/7 to help you get instant support and care.
There is no shame in talking with health care professionals or with people close to you about your feelings or thoughts, regardless of your gender or identity. You are valued, and you matter. This month, we are all working to bring ‘hope with action’ and to continue working to prevent suicide.