Suicide Prevention

Supporting someone in crisis doesn't require professional training; it simply involves being a compassionate listener. If you are concerned about someone's well-being, asking them directly about suicide is the right approach.
Despite common fears that discussing suicide may "give the person the idea," there is no evidence supporting this concern. In reality, talking openly about suicide can have the opposite effect and provide relief for many individuals. Creating a safe space for open dialogue is crucial.

Anyone who talks or writes about taking their own life should be taken seriously. Never assume that a person who has spoken about suicidal thoughts before and not acted on those thoughts won’t do so this time.

Not everyone who thinks about suicide will tell someone and there are some people who give no indication of their intention. However, there are warning signs that we can all look out for. These include, if a person is:

  • Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide. 
  • Actively looking for ways to kill themselves. 
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or of having no reason to live. 
  • Talking about being a burden to others. 
  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain. 
  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
  • Suddenly very much ‘recovered’ after a period of depression. 
  • Visiting or calling people unexpectedly to say goodbye either directly or indirectly. 
  • Making arrangements; setting their affairs in order. 
  • Giving things away, such as prized possession

National Support

NHS 24 Mental Health Hub

Telephone: 111 - the Mental Health Hub is open 24/7

NHS 24 Mental Health Hub NHS 24 mental health services are available to everyone in Scotland. The services available include listening, offering advice and guiding you to further help if required.

Samaritans

Telephone: 116 123 (Free phone) - 24 hours, 365 days a year

This is a confidential emotional support service for anyone experience feelings of distress or despair, or for people with worries about someone else. Further information can be found on the Samaritans website.

Breathing Space

Telephone: 0800 83 85 87 (free phone)
  • Weekdays: 6pm to 2am on weekdays (Monday-Thursday)
  • Weekends: 24 hours (6pm Friday - 6am Monday)
This is a free, confidential, phone service for anyone in Scotland who is who is experiencing low mood or depression and needs someone to talk to. You can also call Breathing Space if you need support with helping someone you're worried about. Further information can be found on the Breathing Space website

PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide

Telephone: 0800 068 4141 - HOPELine247 is a confidential suicide prevention advice service.

If you are a young person at risk of suicide or are worried about a young person at risk of suicide.
Papyrus is a UK charity dedicated to the prevention of suicide and the promotion of positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in young people. Further information can be found on the PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide website

Local Support

Suicide? Help! – website and app with resources

Angus

Angus Suicide Prevention and Support Service
0800 135 7899
Free phoneline Monday-Friday 9am-5pm

Provided by Penumbra and is available to all adults living in Angus who experience thoughts of suicide or who may have attempted suicide. Support is also available for family members, carers or friends of adults experiencing suicidal thoughts.
The service is designed to offer assessment of individual need, provide support and interventions that promote safety, well-being and recovery. Information, guidance and signposting regarding suicide prevention will also be provided.
Email: aspss@penumbra.org.uk 
 
Dundee

Hope Point - Dundee Community Wellbeing Centre
0800 955 0008
Text 01382 604123
24 hours every day

Open day and night to provide immediate help to anyone struggling to see a way ahead. Text, phone or drop in to feel heard, find hope and work through your problems with someone by your side.
Address: 4 South Ward Road Dundee, DD1 1PN

First Contact Team

Adult Protection - 01382 434019
Child Protection - 01382 307999

Out of Hours Service 01382 307964, Weekdays 4.30pm to 9.30am and 4.30pm Fri to 9.30am Mon
Call if you are worried that you or someone you know is being harmed, is suffering from neglect, or is being abused. The Social Work services take any concerns seriously and will inquire and investigate cases where harm is known or suspected. It is important to tell someone.
Website: www.dundeehscp.com/first-contact-team
Website: www.dundeeprotectschildren.co.uk

Perth & Kinross

The Neuk
- Adult Mental Health Crisis and Suicide Prevention Centre

Telephone: 01738 718070

There is a safe and welcoming environment provided for those who are in crisis. This may be due to situational stress that is affecting mental health and wellbeing e.g. relationship breakdown, bereavement, loss of job or coping with lifestyle changes. If you need a safe space, need to talk, or need someone to listen staff are available to listen and care. Further information can be found on The Neuk Mental Health Crisis Centre website

The Lighthouse (Children and Young People Suicide and Self Harm Crisis Service)

Telephone: 0800 121 4820

They offer crisis support to anyone who is at risk with their mental health. This includes whose who are at risk of suicide or self-injury or are in emotional distress or crisis. They offer a safe space to talk and be supported. Staff and volunteers are available to offer a welcoming, non-judgemental approach. Family support is available for any parent/brother or sister/ carer etc. of young people accessing the service. Further information can be found on The Lighthouse website