World Suicide Prevention Day – Mental Health Matters
Today (10th September) is World Suicide Prevention Day, an important opportunity to raise awareness, encourage conversations and remind people that they are not alone.
Here at ACT, we believe mental health is just as important as physical health. We all have mental health, and it can affect how we think, feel, act and cope with everyday life.
Why is Suicide Prevention Important?
Sometimes people can be struggling without those around them knowing and it can be hard for people to find a way to reach out. Starting a conversation and simply asking someone how they are can make a real difference.
We don't always need to have the answers.
Listening without judgement and helping someone find the right support can be incredibly important. Reducing the stigma around mental health also makes it easier for people to speak openly and ask for help when they need it.
Mental Health in the Workplace
We spend a large part of our lives at work, so creating a supportive workplace is important.
Mental health awareness can:
Reduce stigma and encourage open conversations
Improve wellbeing and create a more supportive workplace
Increase job satisfaction by helping employees feel valued
Improve productivity and performance
Reduce absenteeism and staff turnover
In 2024, Scotland lost approximately 1.3 million business days due to poor mental health, highlighting the significant impact mental health can have on both individuals and businesses.
How Can ACT Help?
At ACT, we believe Mental Health First Aid should be an essential part of the workplace, because of this, we offer professional training so that workplaces can make sure they are doing the most for their employees. We have an article explaining all the training we offer in a lot more detail, please feel free to have a look here: Mental Health First Aid Training Near Inverness
Help and Support
Samaritans - Call 116 123
Samaritans are available free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can talk to them about anything that is troubling you.
Shout - Text SHOUT to 85258
Shout provides free, confidential text support and is available 24 hours a day.
Breathing Space (Scotland) - Call 0800 83 85 87
Breathing Space is a free and confidential service for people in Scotland aged 16 and over who are feeling low, anxious or depressed. It is open 6pm–2am Monday to Thursday and 6pm Friday until 6am Monday.
NHS 24 (Scotland) - Call 111 and choose the mental health option
NHS 24's Mental Health Hub can help if you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need urgent support when your usual services are unavailable.
Emergency help - If someone's life is at immediate risk, call 999 or go to A&E.
Let’s Keep Talking
World Suicide Prevention Day is a reminder that a conversation can matter.
By creating workplaces where people feel safe to talk, supported when they need help and confident in knowing where to turn, we can all play a part in looking after mental health.
At ACT, we care about mental health — and we believe it should be an essential part of every workplace.