Together for Suicide Prevention – 10 September

Every year on 10 September, communities and organisations around the world come together to raise awareness of suicide prevention.

It’s a time to reflect, to share, and to renew our commitment to saving lives. We believe one life lost to suicide is one too many. Ministry of Defence (MOD) data shows that suicide rates are highest among males under 25 in the regular forces. This aligns with our own research, which highlights early service leavers as particularly vulnerable to suicidal thoughts.

That’s why we are working on innovative solutions to help prevent suicide. One of our ongoing projects explores the use of artificial intelligence to help clinicians identify veterans at higher risk, with the goal of improving early intervention and support.

The MOD continues to take important steps to reduce stigma around mental health, providing education and support across all ranks. We’re proud to work alongside the MOD, the NHS and other military charities to help build a culture where people feel able to talk and to seek help. As part of our commitment to raising understanding and supporting suicide prevention, we are running the following fully funded training courses, thanks to the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust:

• Suicide Awareness for Family and Friends
• Suicide Prevention for Professionals
• Veterans at High Risk of Suicide for Professionals

These courses can be access via our award-winning learning platform, to find out more visit https://learning.combatstress.org.uk/

We’re here, 24/7. Our mental health Helplines offer specialist, around-the-clock support:

• Serving personnel: 0800 323 4444
• Veterans: 0800 138 1619

If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t stay silent. Help is available.