Suicide. Don't hide it. Talk about it.

"Suicide. Don't Hide it. Talk about it". That's the message Choose Life is sending out to people across the country to mark Suicide Prevention Week (7–13 September).

Last year 843 people in Scotland lost their lives to suicide. To help tackle this issue, a national communications campaign will run to raise awareness of suicide and how it can be prevented.

A combination of radio/online advertising, distribution of  campaign materials across Scotland and PR activity is being used to deliver the campaign's simple message: if you are feeling suicidal, call the Breathing Space or Samaritans helplines, or talk to someone you trust.

Listen to the radio advert now.

Individuals with first-hand experience of attempting suicide, having suicidal thoughts or bereavement by suicide are helping the campaign message to resonate further by featuring in a range of national and regional press, radio broadcasts and online media. Find out more about the media volunteer programme to help educate the public about issues surrounding suicide and provide hope and encouragement for others.

A supporting aim of the campaign is to encourage people to ask about suicide if they are worried that someone else is feeling suicidal, be this a friend, family member or colleague. Serious talk about suicide reduces risk and can save lives.

Choose Life Co-ordinators in local authorities have been working with a range of organisations, community groups and individuals to support the national campaign and highlight Suicide Prevention Week locally. Find out more about the range of local awareness-raising activities that are taking place.

If you are feeling suicidal or suspect that someone you know is considering suicide, contact Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 (24 hours), Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 (Mon-Thurs (6pm-2am; weekends Fri 6pm-Mon 6am) or ChildLine on 0800 11 11.

Download the national press release