EAST Ayrshire Council are encouraging people in Cumnock and Doon Valley to get involved with Suicide Prevention Week.

Suicide is one of the main causes of death among young people with two people taking their life every day day in Scotland.

The national campaign – from Monday, September 4 to Friday, September 10 – aims to encourage people to ‘read between the lines’ and help prevent suicide.

And the council’s Vibrant Communities Lifestyle Development, Adults and Older People team will be promoting the message to help get more people to act on the signs they may see in others.

Councillor Elena Whitham said: “Openly discussing someone’s thoughts of suicide and allowing them to talk about how they feel can be a source of relief for them and can be key to preventing the immediate danger of suicide.

“Having lost a family member and a close friend to suicide, I am acutely aware of the devastation and loss it brings.

“The Community Health Improvement Partnership (CHIP) team delivers safeTALK which is a training course that prepares anyone over the age of 15 to identify persons with thoughts of suicide and connect them to suicide first aid resources. Most people with thoughts of suicide invite help to stay safe. Alert helpers know how to use these opportunities to support that desire for safety.”

People attempt suicide for a wide range of reasons and those at risk may not always say or show how they feel. The best way to identify the possibility of suicide is to ask the person directly.

Family, friends and workmates of people at risk could be in a good position to recognise the signs of distress in someone and be able to help.

During September, the CHIP team will be offering free advice. They also offer a whole range of exercise options as there is clear link between physical activity and good mental health.

For more information about CHIP and safeTALK training contact Faye Forsyth on 01563 576 398.

To speak to someone about your own feelings or if you are worried about someone close to you, contact Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 or the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90.