Devon residents are being encouraged to help change the narrative on suicide this World Suicide Prevention Day (10 September) by learning how to start supportive conversations, recognising when someone may be struggling, and knowing where to find help and support.
Public Health Devon is using the awareness day to highlight the simple actions everyone can take to support suicide prevention, from completing free training and accessing practical resources to checking in with friends, family members and colleagues.
World Suicide Prevention Day is an annual awareness day that brings people, communities and organisations together to increase understanding of suicide and highlight the actions we can all take to support one another. This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”, encourages open and honest conversations that can help reduce stigma, improve understanding and create a culture where people feel able to seek help when they need it. Every conversation has the potential to make a difference.
Suicide prevention remains a significant public health issue in Devon. The county’s suicide rate of 13.5 deaths per 100,000 people is significantly higher than the England average, and almost three-quarters of deaths occur among men, which is in line with national trends. These figures highlight the importance of reducing stigma, encouraging people to seek help, and empowering communities to support one another.
Local partners across Devon continue to work together to improve awareness, reduce stigma, increase access to support and equip communities with the skills and confidence to help those who may be struggling.
Steve Brown, Director of Public Health and Communities at Devon County Council, said:
“World Suicide Prevention Day is an important opportunity to remind people that suicide prevention is everybody’s business.
“We know that talking openly about suicide and mental health can feel difficult, but those conversations can make a real difference. By taking the time to listen, show compassion and connect someone with support, we can help people feel less alone.
” Across Devon, we are working with partners to improve understanding of suicide, reduce stigma and improve access to support. We want people to know that help is available and that every one of us can play a role in creating a more supportive, understanding and connected community.”
Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, Communities and Equality, said:
“Suicide can affect anyone, and its impact can be devastating for families, friends and communities.
“As a predominantly rural county, we know that isolation and loneliness can be a reality for many people across Devon, particularly within our farming communities where suicide rates remain a serious concern. Recent challenges such as the drought and bluetongue have put additional pressure on farmers and rural families, and at times it can feel overwhelming, but they have also encouraged more conversations about wellbeing and the importance of supporting one another.
“I’d encourage everyone to check in with their neighbours, friends and family, and not be afraid to talk openly about how they’re feeling. Sometimes all it takes is picking up the phone to a trusted friend or supportive person, having a conversation and knowing you’re not alone.
“Organisations like the Farming Community Network provide invaluable support, and I would encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out. This World Suicide Prevention Day, let’s all play our part in creating a Devon where people feel able to talk, seek help and support each other.”
Public Health Devon is encouraging everyone to take simple but meaningful steps to support suicide prevention, whether that’s completing the free Zero Suicide Alliance awareness training, having a conversation with someone they’re concerned about, or learning more about local support services.
More advanced training opportunities, including Connect 5, Youth Connect 5 and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), are also available free of charge through Devon’s mental health and wellbeing and suicide prevention training programme.
People are also being encouraged to explore Devon’s practical suicide prevention resources, including the “It’s OK to Talk About Suicide” guide and Safety Plan resource. The Safety Plan helps people identify warning signs, coping strategies and sources of support that can help keep them safe during difficult times or a mental health crisis. Both resources are available online and in print.
Looking after our mental wellbeing is an important part of suicide prevention. Public Health Devon’s Five Ways to Wellbeing provide simple actions that can help people feel more positive, connected and resilient. From staying active and keeping connected with others to taking notice, learning new skills and giving to others, small everyday actions can make a positive difference to our wellbeing.
Information about local mental health services, crisis support and NHS-approved wellbeing advice through Every Mind Matters is also available online. We can all struggle at times, and seeking support when needed is an important part of maintaining good mental health.
To find out more about suicide prevention work in Devon, access free training, download a personal Safety Plan, or learn where to find mental health support, visit Devon’s Public Health webpages.