Choose Life

Hi Folks,

In the past, I personally have been grateful for having enlightened male friends with whom I could discuss with and talk over various troubles of the day. Many men today, for what ever reason do not seek out a similar outlet for their anxieties and inner fears. The reasons for the reluctance of many men to talk about their problems are many and complex but Choose Life needs your help to help them to talk, just talk.

Suicide Awareness Week (4th to 11th September)

I know you can help, I know that you would want to help. If you feel you can, contact:

alisonm@ramh.org or rosemarym@ramh.org

or for more information visit
www.chooselife.net

Choose Life is a 10 year plan aimed at reducing suicides in Scotland by 20% by 2013. It is the product of over 2 years work which drew on the experience and expertise of a broad range of partners including the family members of people who had attempted or completed suicide, health and social care workers, teachers, young people, suicide survivors, public health specialists, voluntary and community agencies, and many others.

Almost 3 out of 4 suicides in 2004 were men. Also, suicide is the biggest killer of Scottish young men aged 18-25.

Every day, more than two people die from suicide in Scotland. It is the biggest killer of young Scottish men, yet it is arguably one of the few remaining taboos in society. If this stigma is to be reduced, one of the biggest challenges for the mental health sector is to increase awareness and improve public understanding of suicide in order that people are less afraid to speak out and get the help they need.

If you have attempted suicide in the past or lost someone close to you to suicide, or know someone who has, this personal experience could help to educate the public about the issues surrounding suicide and provide hope and encouragement for others.

People feeling suicidal should not be ashamed to seek help, and more importantly should be listened to and taken seriously. Since three out of four suicides are of men, Choose Life is particularly keen to speak to men who have personal experience of having suicidal thoughts in the past.

Hey! Talk don't Die.