Reaching out
[Trigger warning: suicide]
Suicide is the single biggest killer of men under the age of 45 in the country, but suicides among teenage girls and young women have almost doubled in recent years.
Back in May as part of Mental Health Awareness Week, we came together to talk about the importance of reaching out early for mental health support and speaking to others. People who have been suicidal have often said it is a relief to talk about thoughts they are experiencing. Just being there to listen and showing you care can help can make all the difference. This week, we’re asking you to think about how you can support someone in your life who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts or at risk of suicide; and encourage understanding and sharing experiences.
If you’re worried about someone around you, we have our new Moments that matter – supporting a colleague when you’re worried about them. It can be difficult to know what to say so here you’ll find guidance on how to spot signs, ask the right questions and signpost to the wellbeing support.
To further support you, we’re also launching new online suicide awareness sessions. We’d encourage you to sign up today so you can help those around you whether it be spotting signs, having the right conversation and knowing where to signpost to.
Tuesday 26 September 10 - 10.45am
Monday 9 October 1.30 – 2.15pm
Tuesday 14 November 1 - 1.45pm
Wednesday 13 December 11 - 11.45am
Friday 12 January 1 - 1.45pm
These are available to all colleagues - you can sign up here for any of the above sessions and various other wellbeing related online workshops. Save the link to your favourites as we’ll regularly update with new workshops.
If you or someone you know needs urgent help, don’t wait for things to get better on their own. Go to the Wellbeing Hub for immediate guidance and support.
Our wellbeing Employee Assistance Programme is there to support you, 24/7, 365 days a year. It’s free, completely confidential and independent to Royal Mail. Whether you want to speak to someone in the moment or talk through something more complex, they’re there for you.
