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Pieta House outlines how you can Spot the Signs of suicide
It is a well-known fact that the majority of those who die by suicide in Ireland are men. A fact that isn’t quite so well-known, is that a large proportion of those men come from a construction or production industries background – something that CIF is very serious about tackling. In 2015, CIF and Pieta House, the Centre for the Prevention of Suicide and Self-Harm, and Suicide Bereavement Support, came together for the Mind Our Workers campaign, which aimed to raise awareness of the problem and educate our workers about the signs of suicide, how to help look after their own mental well-being, and the signs to look out for in others. This year, for Construction Safety Week, CIF and Pieta House have joined forces again to continue to highlight this important issue.
Spot The Signs – Save A Life
It is a myth that suicide is the reserve of only those with severe or long-term depression or other mental health problems; anyone can be affected by thoughts of suicide at some point in their lives. Triggers can include the loss of a loved one, either through death or the breakdown of a relationship, work-related issues, or humiliation.
A death by suicide can come as a terrible shock, but there are signs to look out for, and by spotting them you could help to save a life. Causes for concern may include:
- Increased isolation
- Reduction in social contact
- Turning off phone
- Quitting social media
- Decreased performance in work/school/sports
- Emotional burnout
- Increase in alcohol or drug usage
- Loss of appetite
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Giving away personal possessions
- Talking about death
Mind Your Buddy
How can you help? Be aware of the most common triggers that can lead a person to a suicidal crisis, talk about issues with your friends and colleagues, and check in with those around you. Never underestimate the difference a simple conversation can make, or the impact you can have on someone’s life just by letting them know they’re not alone.
If you have any concerns, remember APR:
Ask –> Ask the question, “Are you suicidal?” Don’t be afraid to name it.
Persuade –> If a person is reluctant to talk and you’re still worried, be gently persistent, and – in a quiet, private setting – persuade them to talk.
Refer –> Have necessary information to hand, such as helpline numbers, and make the call yourself.
Pieta House provides freely accessible, professional services to people who are in suicidal crisis or self-harming and to those who have been bereaved by suicide. Pieta House has locations across Ireland, and uses a solution-focused therapy model, entirely free of charge.
To access our services:
- Visit pieta.ie to find details of your nearest centre
- Call our Freephone helpline at any time on 1800 247 247
- Text HELP to 51444 (standard text rates apply)