SILHILLIANS have been called into action as part of World Suicide Prevention Day.
On Tuesday (September 10) the World Health Organisation encouraged people to “start the conversation” and talk to people if they’re worried about them.
Solihull Council also called on residents to join the Orange Button scheme.
This scheme empowers people to have supportive conversations with friends, family, colleagues and others, and to help them signpost people who are having suicidal thoughts.
People who undertake the Orange Button training receive an orange button, which they can wear whenever they choose.
The button lets people know that wearers have the confidence and knowledge to talk about suicide and let people know where to find help and support.
The free online training is delivered twice a month, with spaces available for sessions later this year.
Councillor Tony Dicicco, cabinet member for Public Health at Solihull Council, said: “The Orange Button scheme is a great way for people to help support people in need.
“The Orange Button scheme launched a year ago, with more than 350 people trained since then, helping build a community of Orange Button wearers across Solihull and Birmingham.
“Becoming an orange button wearer and joining the growing community can help those suffering with their mental health.
“By completing the training, you could make a really positive difference with the people you live and work with.”
The Orange Button training is delivered by Every Life Matters.
More information on the Orange Button and how to access the training is available on the Council’s Orange Button scheme page.
And Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust (BSMHFT) called for ‘kindness, compassion and understanding.
Dr Sadira Teeluckdharry, deputy medical director for Quality and Safety at the Trust, said: “It’s important to note that not everyone displays how they are feeling inside, some people can be very skilled at hiding how they truly feel. Your loved one can be very low in mood yet still laugh or joke, post on social media, go to work or talk about the future.
“Showing kindness, compassion and understanding can go a long way to helping someone feel able to open up about how they are feeling.”
In 2021 in England, there were over 5,000 deaths by suicide, leaving behind thousands of bereaved friends and family.
Anyone worried about their mental health, or the mental health of someone they know, you can call the Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health helpline on 0121 262 3555 or 0800 915 9292.
The helpline is available every day from 9am to 11pm.
Alternatively contact NHS 111 and press option 2 – this line is free and is open 24/7. This is for people of all ages, including children, who are in crisis or concerned family and loved one to speak to a trained mental health professional.
Anyone who is deaf, have hearing loss or if English is not their first language should visit the NHS 111 website.
