World Suicide Prevention Day is on 10 September. Suicide is the single biggest killer of men under the age of 45, so it’s hugely important that we eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health in our industry.
The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) has teamed up with ANDYSMANCLUB to offer a Wellbeing Talk on Suicide Prevention. Together, our aim is to reduce the stigma and create safe, judgement-free spaces for men to be open about the storms affecting their lives.
This month’s talk is designed to be free of pressure, and there is no obligation to speak if you do not feel comfortable – you’re welcome to simply listen and learn.
You can tune in to this wellbeing talk on Wednesday September 3rd from 12pm to 1pm. ANDYSMANCLUB offer weekly, free to attend peer-to-peer support groups for men aged over 18 and focus on raising awareness and spreading the word to as many people as possible.
What You Can Do to Help:
Listen non-judgementally
When someone talks about suicide/suicidal thoughts, it can be tempting to offer immediate solutions or try to lighten the mood. But in these moments, the most important thing is to provide empathy and non-judgemental support.
Active Listening
Listening can stop people from feeling isolated, acknowledging hopelessness and life challenges helps people feel less trapped and more open to support. Ask open-ended questions, unhurried listening also builds trust – so let them talk at their own pace.
Signposting
If someone is feeling suicidal, it can help to direct them to professionals, people who are trained to deal with suicidal thoughts. Identify and plan supportive contacts and backup strategies for times when coping alone isn’t enough. The first steps are often to seek advice from a GP. However, there are also alternatives such as The Hub of Hope, CALM, and The Samaritans.
The EIC offers counselling services to anyone in our industry who is experiencing suicidal thoughts, or who has been bereaved by suicide.
