As Ireland marks World Suicide Prevention Day today, new research from Pieta* reveals that while many people want to support someone who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts, uncertainty around what to say or how to respond may be stopping them from starting a conversation.
Pieta is reminding anyone worried about someone close to them that its 24/7 Crisis Helpline can provide support and information on what to do next.
The findings highlight the gap between wanting to help and knowing how to respond as almost half of respondents (48%) said they had been concerned that someone close to them may have been at risk of suicide.
Fear of making things worse (60%), fear of saying the wrong thing (59%), and concern about how the person might react (56%) were the three most common reasons respondents gave for hesitating to speak to someone about suicide.
The research also found that 52% of respondents had expressed concern about someone but did not directly ask about suicide.
Respondents said that advice (63%), information on warning signs (51%), information on available support services (49%) and knowing that support is free and does not require a referral (45%) would make them feel more confident starting a conversation.
Pieta provides these resources, and its services are free and do not require a referral.
Speaking about the findings and Pieta’s support services, Stephanie Manahan, Pieta CEO, said: “As we mark World Suicide Prevention Day, this research shows that many people have worried someone close to them may be at risk of suicide. It also shows how fears of saying the wrong thing or making matters worse can leave people unsure how to respond. Talking about suicide can feel difficult, and no single conversation is a solution on its own. What matters is that people know support is available and where to turn.
Pieta provides free, professional support for people experiencing suicidal thoughts or self-harm. Our 24/7 Crisis Helpline can also provide help and information to anyone concerned about someone close to them. We believe we can stop self-harm and suicide, together.”
Pieta provides free services for people who are experiencing suicidal thoughts, engaging in self-harm, or who have been bereaved by suicide.
Pieta also offers support and information to anyone concerned about someone close to them.
Visit pieta.ie for full information on supports and resources.
Pieta’s Crisis Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year – freephone 1800 247 247, or text HELP to 51444. All Pieta services are free of charge and no referral is needed.