Suicide and depression

Every day around 2 people die from suicide in Scotland - suicide prevention is everyone's business


While it is by no means inevitable that a diagnosis of depression will lead to self-harm or a suicide attempt, it is nevertheless clear that people affected by depression are at risk of suicide. 

Feeling suicidal? Help is available

People typically feel suicidal  for only a limited period of time.  Remember that although life seems unbearable now, things can change for the better over time. 

Dying may seem like the only way to make the pain go away right now but there could be another solution to your problems that you can't see at the moment. 

Life could get very good again if you get help and support now and get through this difficult time.

There is something you can do right now - Talk to someone.  It might be a family member, your GP or anyone you trust.  If you feel uneasy being so open to someone you know there are many organisations and helplines you can contact.  Read our Get Help Now page or to talk to someone right now.

Helplines

  • Samaritans on 0845 790 9090 or email the Samaritans.  They are open 24/7

  • Breathing Space free on 0800 83 85 87. They are open 6pm - 2am Monday to Friday and all weekend

  • Childline on 0800 1111.  They are open 24 hours to help children and young people under 19 throughout the UK

  • Papyrus on 0800 068 4141 - a UK charity dedicated to the prevention of young suicide

  • Sane is open 6pm - 11pm.  Contact them on 08457  67 8000 or by email. 

For more sources of support, visit our page with details of urgent help.

Websites

  • If you are feeling suicidal, read this first a webpage which offers hope and support to people who are suicidal. It's American so some links don't apply but it's still very helpful.

  • The Stamp Out Suicide!  Website is packed with information concerning suicide awareness and prevention, and provides points of contact for those feeling down, depressed and / or suicidal.

Worldwide support

  • Befrienders International work worldwide to provide emotional support to reduce suicide rates.  The site has a global list of helplines and contains useful information on overcoming suicidal thoughts, depression, self harm and bullying.

Can Action on Depression help?

Read about supporting someone who is suicidal, and where to get support if you've been bereaved by suicide.  You can also read a personal story of hope after a suicide attempt or simply learn more on Scotland's statistics.

While not everyone with depression will attempt suicide, there is a clear link and many people who complete suicide have had or currently have depression. 

Part of our campaigning and awareness raising work at Action on Depression is to raise awareness of depression as being treatable and bring hope to people who think that suicide is the only way out.  We also support the Choose Life suicide prevention initiative which is working to reduce suicide rates in Scotland.

With suicide, it’s crucial to know that you are not alone.