Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Trust launches suicide prevention campaign alongside health organisations

Heath organisations across Suffolk, Norfolk and Essex have launched a suicide prevention campaign.

Set to run through September and coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day on Saturday, it is mainly being targeted at men between the ages of 30 and 49.

The campaign, under the hashtag #YoureNotAlone brings together NHS Trusts, councils and other partners.

Its main aim is to encourage people to seek help regarding mental health issues while also highlighting services throughout Norfolk and Suffolk.

These include wellbeing services, crisis lines and specialist support for veterans and people working in farming.

Stuart Richardson, the CEO of Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT), hopes the campaign will encourage people to speak up about their mental health woes.

He said: “Suicide has a devastating impact on families and communities, but is a subject which society still struggles to talk about openly.

“The campaign is designed to show people that help is available while encouraging them to step forward if they need some extra support.

"This is especially important among men, who can often be reluctant to talk about their mental health or develop strategies to help them cope during times of distress."

“We would urge anyone who feels they may need support, or is concerned about someone else, to look at the resources which are available and reach out for help. It could make a really big difference.”

According to Samaritans, middle-aged men are the most at risk from suicide.

While men and women attempt suicide at similar rates, men are more likely to die from suicide, as they often pick deadlier methods.

Those aged 45-49, both men and women, are the most at risk out of any age group, according to a report by the charity.

The cost of living and energy crises present a risk to vulnerable people, which the campaign hopes to address.

It also hopes to highlights the impact a relationship breakup can have on mental wellbeing.

Newmarket-based GP and Board member for the Trust Nicholas Rayner said: “The pressures facing our mental health can at times seem relentless.

"Having hopefully overcome the very darkest days of the COVID pandemic, we are now in a period of financial turmoil, with the threat of fuel poverty, increased housing costs, the weekly food shop costing more and more and the prospect of rising unemployment on the horizon.

"These are just some of the reasons people can feel overwhelmed, leading to thoughts of suicide."

He added: “There is support out there, whether it’s talking to a friend, relative or health professional. I hope World Suicide Prevention Day and this campaign will help highlight that you are not alone."