Suicide Is Not Inevitable

This World Suicide Prevention Day, we’re sharing one vital message: If you think someone might be suicidal, take action, interrupt their thoughts and show them you care.

Suicide is not inevitable. You can interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts. Your action could save a life.

The Facts

Every 90 minutes, someone in the UK or Ireland dies by suicide
1 in 4 of us has had suicidal thoughts
Tomorrow could be too late – let’s prevent suicide today

Suicidal Thoughts Can Be Interrupted

Research with people who have lived experience of suicide reveals hope: the majority said their suicidal thoughts have been interrupted.

60% said their suicidal thoughts were interrupted by someone close to them, like a friend or family member
14% said their suicidal thoughts were interrupted by a stranger or someone they didn’t know

This shows us that small actions matter. You don’t need to be an expert to help someone who is struggling.

Anyone Can Make a Difference

You don’t have to have specialist training to interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts. Small interruptions and simple actions can help someone who is suicidal. Whether you’re a family member, friend, colleague, or even a stranger, your intervention could be life-saving.

As one member of Samaritans’ lived experience panel said: “If you’re worried someone is having harmful thoughts, it’s better to interrupt than not.”

How You Can Help

If you’re concerned about someone:

Reach out – a simple message or conversation could interrupt their thoughts
Show you care – let them know you’ve noticed they’re struggling
Take action – don’t wait, act now rather than hoping things will improve
Listen without judgment – sometimes just being there is enough

For guidance on how to support someone with suicidal thoughts, or if you’re struggling yourself, visit the Samaritans website or contact your GP.

In a crisis?

Call 999 now or go to A&E.

For More Information