Christine Husbands, commercial director, RedArc, says: “There is no substitute for professional support when an individual has suicidal thoughts, but anyone could find themselves having an unexpected conversation with a friend, family member, colleague or even a stranger who has mental health problems. There are a few things to keep in mind when offering support, including listening and not judging.”

RedArc outlines key ways that individuals and organisations can provide support.

Listen

Just being listened to can be a great relief for those struggling with their mental health. So asking open questions is important to encourage the individual to talk and be honest about how they are feeling. Similarly, it’s important to give the conversation time to develop as it can take a while for the individual to fully open up. It’s also important to take their issues seriously and not to judge their mindset or situation.

It’s OK to use the word ‘suicide’

There is no need to skirt around the subject of suicide. It’s okay to use the word, and it won’t make it more likely that someone will act on their thoughts.

Professional support

Finding professional support is an important next step which may initially be via the individual’s GP or via added-value services embedded into employee benefits, insurance, cashplans or affinity group memberships. Nobody plans to need mental health support, so it is important that support is communicated clearly so that people know what is available and how to access it when their situation necessitates it.

Prevention

Suicide can be prevented. Clinically trained mental health practitioners are best positioned to offer support before people get to that stage. They have the professional knowledge and resources available, such as arranging specialist support, signposting to help, or recommending the most appropriate therapy.

Anyone could find themselves providing emotional support to someone who is in distress, however it is essential that the emergency services are alerted if there is a concern about harm to the individual or others.

Christine Husbands concludes: “Nobody should underestimate the importance of reaching out, and the power of listening in.”