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

Raising awareness and understanding of suicide among the general public is an important part of the Choose Life national strategy and action plan.

If you're feeling suicidal, the best thing you can do is talk.

The national 'Suicide. Don't Hide it. Talk about it.' campaign tackles the stigma associated with suicide, and encourages people at risk to talk to someone about feeling suicidal as the first step towards getting help.

Since almost three out of four suicides are by men and young people are particularly vulnerable, the campaign aims to reach young men, who traditionally find it less easy to talk about their mood or difficulties they may be facing.

TV, radio and online advertising, national distribution of campaign materials, media relations activity and local awareness-raising are all used to deliver the campaign's simple message: if you are feeling suicidal, talking helps. Speak to someone you trust or call a helpline like Breathing Space or Samaritans.

A public campaign site gives more information on Breathing Space and Samaritans, and includes information on what to do if a person is worried that someone they know might be at risk.

Watch the TV advert now or read the transcript.

If you're worried that someone is suicidal, ask them.

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 the immediate risk and can save lives.

It's OK to talk about suicide.

A major obstacle to getting people talking and asking about suicide is the stigma the surrounds suicide. By talking openly about suicide we can lessen misunderstandings and intolerance so that people at risk feel more comfortable about seeking help. Honest and direct talk about suicidal feelings and the issues that are leading to a person feeling this way is crucial to suicide prevention, as solutions can be discussed and the person linked to relevant support.

Individuals with first-hand experience of attempting suicide, having suicidal thoughts or bereavement by suicide help to change public attitudes 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.