The woman behind an internet campaign designed to encourage others to discuss their mental health says she was inspired to launch the drive after the suicide of someone she knew.
The woman, who is in her early 20s, set up the Ladies Talk Aberdeen page on Facebook with her two sisters because she wanted to do “anything she could to help” others in such straits.
The siblings want to remain anonymous, as they believe that helps encourage more people to come to them for help, and the woman asked to be referred to only as Miss T.
She said: “Within the first day of starting, we had a woman share her story.
“I told her she wasn’t alone and gave her some advice.
“She said she was instantly feeling better and told us the page is going to save lives – and included hers in that.”
One of the sisters has studied psychology and another is in the process of earning a degree in counselling.
Since its inception, Ladies Talk Aberdeen has attracted more than 1,000 supporters on social media while organisers say dozens of people have contacted them for helpful advice.
The sisters created the digital gathering place after hearing about the impact of a similar group aimed at reducing male suicides, Man Chat Aberdeen.
Man Chat Aberdeen was set up to reduce the stigma which men often feel when discussing their mental health, and encourage them to open up more to family and friends.
But Miss T said that is something many women also feel, with several females who have contacted the group explaining that they had difficulty speaking to people they know.
She said: “The three of us have all had mental health issues in the past and I think that’s where you can sympathise and share information on what has helped us through.
“From the response we have had, the anonymity of the service is what is appealing – they have told us things they’ve never told anyone before.
“When enough people come forward, we want to start holding meetings to chat and share because therapists and counsellors can be scary.
“I came close to committing suicide myself and would have loved to have something like this to turn to.
“Too many people suffer in silence.
“I heard a girl I knew through a friend had committed suicide, and just realised then it was time for change.
“I seem to be hearing about more and more suicides and just think it’s important to do anything I can to help.”
Anyone struggling who needs to talk can call Samaritans, a free and confidential emotional support service available 24 hours a day, on 116 123 or e-mail jo@samaritans.org
Alternatively, call Breathing Space on 0800 838 587.
