Thursday 10 September marks World Suicide Prevention Day and an opportunity to raise awareness of suicide prevention and how people can take action that could help save lives.

Joanne Poole, Head of Clinical Programmes for Mental Health at NHS North East and Yorkshire, said NHS services are available to help people in need of emotional support or experiencing a mental health crisis.

“People can access emotional support through NHS Talking Therapies,” Joanne said. “They do not need to have a diagnosed mental health condition to refer themselves to NHS talking therapies and get the support they need.

“People who are in crisis, or concerned loved ones, can call 111 or visit NHS 111 online, select the mental health option and access a trained mental health professional who can guide and support them with next steps such as face-to-face community support or access to crisis alternative services.”

The NHS continues to advise people to call 999 if there is a serious risk to life – if you or someone else is in danger, call 999 or go to A&E immediately.

In the North East and Yorkshire, local NHS teams are working towards delivering 15 new community mental health centres and 10 new mental health emergency departments, subject to approvals, as part a redesign of NHS neighbourhood mental health services.

The new community mental health centres will bring together mental health and specialist teams under one roof, making it easier for people to get the right support before problems escalate. They will be the heart of the neighbourhoods they serve and designed as welcoming settings with a non-clinical appearance.

As communities and organisations mark World Suicide Prevention Day, national charity Samaritans, which supports people in distress or at risk of suicide, points to research and lived experience that shows small acts of kindness and support can make a significant difference to someone who is struggling.

People don’t need specialist training to help someone in crisis, Samaritans says, and starting a conversation and showing concern can provide a vital interruption to suicidal thoughts. Samaritans has produced resources, including information and advice for anyone who wants to learn more about recognising the signs and interrupting suicidal thoughts.