A Sad Day in Football
Sensitive discussions about suicide help to reduce stigma.
PAPYRUS was saddened by the death of the Wales Football Manager, Gary Speed, on Sunday 26 November 2011 (pictured). Like many apparent suicides, Gary's death has shocked and saddened all who knew him. Our sympathies go out to his family, friends and many fans and colleagues.
PAPYRUS believes that, in many cases, suicide is preventable. Like many charities, PAPYRUS is working hard to tackle the stigma attributed by some to mental illness and suicide. We do not always know what causes people to take their own lives. What we do know is that many people, especially men, find it hard to seek help.
Just getting through each day can be a real challenge for young people. Talking about their problems can feel impossible when they are in a personal crisis. Often, young men find it especially difficult to talk about their feelings or to seek help. Some may experience a lack of trust or a fear of burdening others. Some may believe that the situation will become worse if they make it known. Feelings of shame, embarrassment and guilt can make us keep our thoughts locked in and stop us talking to someone about our issues.
PAPYRUS is very clear that NOBODY should have to cope alone - that goes for all of us - young people, men and women alike. Caregivers, too, need to be able to talk about their worries.
The main message is simple: don't hide your feelings or your worries - talk about them.
Gary’s death was sudden and totally unexpected. Many of us will have wondered why. Equally important, we might all ask what we can do to intervene with anyone who we think may be struggling alone. PAPYRUS encourages sensitive discussions about suicide, hoping to reduce the stigma. A community where talking about suicidal thoughts is not a taboo will surely be more ready to intervene when those thoughts become overwhelming for people.
The PAPYRUS helpline service, HOPELineUK 0800 068 41 41, offers professional suicide prevention advice in confidence to young people at risk or to caregivers concerned about a young person they know. There is also detailed online information on this website which may help save young lives.
If you are worried about yourself or another young person you know, talk about it. Call HOPELineUK on 0800 068 41 41.
Together we can help to save young lives.
Photo reference: zimbo.com