Almost half of people in Ireland have worried that someone close to them may be at risk of suicide, according to new research from Pieta.
The findings have been released to mark World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10 and highlight how many people want to help, but may not know how to start a conversation.
The research found that 48% of respondents had been concerned that someone close to them may be at risk of suicide.
However, more than half said they would hesitate before starting a conversation because they were worried about saying the wrong thing.
Fear of making things worse was the most common concern, with 60% of people giving this as a reason for hesitating.
This was followed by fear of saying the wrong thing at 59%, while 56% were concerned about how the person might react.
The research also found that 52% of respondents had expressed concern about someone but had not directly asked them about suicide.
Pieta says having the right information could help people feel more confident about starting that conversation.
Some 63% said advice would make them more confident, while 51% said information about warning signs would help.
Almost half said information about available support services would make them more comfortable starting a conversation, while 45% said knowing that support is free and does not require a referral would help.
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Pieta CEO Stephanie Manahan said the findings show that people can feel unsure about how to respond when they are worried about someone.
“Talking about suicide can feel difficult, and no single conversation is a solution on its own. What matters is that people know support is available and where to turn,” she said.
Pieta provides free support to people experiencing suicidal thoughts or self-harm, as well as people bereaved by suicide.
Its 24-hour Crisis Helpline is also available to anyone who is concerned about someone close to them.
If you are worried about someone, you do not have to know exactly what to say or do before asking for help.
Pieta’s Crisis Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 1800 247 247. You can also text HELP to 51444. Pieta says its crisis service is free and does not require a referral.
Other supports are also available:
Samaritans: Call 116 123, free, 24 hours a day.
Text About It: Text HELLO to 50808 for free, 24/7 support by text.
HSE: The HSE has information on suicide, mental health crises and how to support someone who may be struggling.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger or at immediate risk of self-harm, call 112 or 999 or go to your nearest emergency department.
If you are concerned about someone else, you can contact Pieta, Samaritans or Text About It for advice and support. You do not need to wait until you are certain that someone is suicidal before reaching out.
