Things you can do right now to help when suicidal thoughts become too much.
Call the Samaritans on 116 123
Most importantly if you are worried you can’t keep yourself safe go to your nearest
A&E or dial 999
Call your GP – Your GP can help by referring you to a local mental health provision or crisis team. If it’s out of hours call NHS 111
Text SHOUT to 85258 if you prefer to talk to someone via text message. They offer confidential support 24/7 and are always on hand.
- Take every minute as it comes – you’ve survived a minute, then five minutes, then thirty minutes then an hour. Break time down into manageable frames – eventually the time periods will get longer and more manageable.
- Talk to someone – do not suffer in silence. Talk to a fellow soldier or veteran, your CO, family, friend or whoever you trust.
- Avoid drugs and alcohol – however tempting this is stay away from drugs and alcohol as it will make things harder to overcome.
- Do something you usually enjoy – Distract yourself from thoughts and the current situation by doing something you enjoy. Go for a walk, go to the gym, watch a good film, cook a nice meal, catch up with a friend – whatever it is take time out to do something you enjoy.
- Deep breathing – it might sound silly but take in deep breaths and breathe slowly. The more you do this the more relaxed you will become.
