A mental health charity boss is calling on friends and family members of those struggling during the pandemic to be on the lookout for stark changes in behaviour to prevent suicide.
Astrid Whyte, chief executive of Mental Health Aberdeen, said that spotting “behavioural changes and intense loneliness” could save a life, as September 10 marks World Suicide Prevention Suicide Day.
The number of suicides in the north-east has started to climb as unemployment rises and people feel increasingly isolated, Ms Whyte said.
The mental health charity chief said it is important to respond with “kindness and empathy” and not to be “reticent” around asking questions when people spot a difference in interactions with those they know.
She said: “People are often frightened of mentioning these things – worried about what can of worms they are going to open. Will they respond appropriately?
“It’s actually simpler than you think, especially for people who know the person well.
“If friends, family or colleagues notice any kind change then that can be a sign that someone is struggling.
“Have they become more talkative or more withdrawn and quiet? Any change in behaviour warrants comment.”
Ms Whyte says Mental Health Aberdeen has remained “active and open” throughout the pandemic, despite the challenges faced by the service.
As lockdown struck, the charity increased its helplines and frontline counselling staff while also offering a new blended service of telephone and face-to-face counselling behind specially designed screens.
“We’ve tried to be as flexible and as adaptable as we can”, Ms Whyte said.
“We’re a small local charity, but we’re big on service and people need to have the confidence to come.
“For somebody who has been isolating or shielding since the start of lockdown, the situation must fill them with a lot of anxiety.”
However, she’s also asking people to step out of their comfort zone and ask often difficult questions of those most at risk.
“It is important to ask what is going on. And that can be positive, it doesn’t have to be negative.
“If people get away from the polite British reticence and let kindness and empathy win then that would make a big difference.
“Many suicides are due to people being intensely lonely with the problem that they are facing.”
For adult and youth mental health counselling in Aberdeen, people can call 01224 573 892, and in Lower Marr call 013398 86700.
