A NEW report gives information about the suicide rate in North Lanarkshire and the work being done to reduce it.

The report, which was presented to the council’s adult health and social care committee, reveals that in the last three years 145 suicides took place in the local authority area.

There has been a growth in deaths by suicide of people aged under 39 and more than two thirds of the deceased were males.

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The report mentioned that suicides were particularly common in Airdrie and Coatbridge.

As the report was considered by the committee, councillor Caroline Stephen (SNP, Coatbridge West) commented: “I must admit as a councillor it was very distressing, because at home (due to the pandemic) I couldn’t go and see my constituents, we could only speak over the phone.

"I felt as if it was funeral after funeral after funeral and it was so distressing, I can’t even imagine what it would be like for the families”.

Since 2019 police have been providing other authorities with more details about people who commit suicide, including what is known about their employment and relationships.

The council’s social work staff have been working in various ways to try and reduce suicide rates, starting with young people in schools.

In North Lanarkshire 16 young people under the age of 25 completed suicide in 2020 and statistics show around that each year around 200 school pupils in the UK are lost to suicide.

Through working in partnership with the NHS, Samaritans and police, social workers have helped develop new suicide prevention guidance for all staff working with children and young people up to the age of 26, ensuring awareness of the prevalence of suicide and ensuring all schools are familiar with the various forms of assistance available to them.

The Suicide Prevention Lanarkshire App  has also been developed and is currently available for download. This gives practical advice on how to
start difficult conversations around suicide.

Suicide Prevention North Lanarkshire ran publicity campaigns in the festive period and spring, with separate materials targeting young people and those aged 35-55.

A core part of this has been the “Let’s Talk” message encouraging anyone who feels suicidal to talk to a friend, family member or relevant support resource. It also seeks to help family and friends start a conversation with someone they are worried about.

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The campaign has been running on bus street liners and, outdoor sites
across North Lanarkshire since April and also shown on STV on demand, Google Ads and promoted social media posts.

Suicide prevention partners are also considering establishing a review group, and plans are currently being reviewed.

The committee noted the report which will now be forwarded to the integrated joint board for further approval.

If someone you know is struggling, here are some signs to look out for that show they might need help:

Feeling restless and agitated, angry and aggressive, tearful or being tired or lacking in energy

Not wanting to talk to or be with people or do things they usually enjoy, or finding it tough to cope with everyday things Using alcohol or drugs to cope with feelings, or talking about feeling hopeless, worthless or helpless, or feeling trapped

Not replying to messages or being distant.

It can be tricky to start a conversation but there are ways to get talking:

The Samaritans say it’s okay to ask someone directly if they’re suicidal as research shows this helps. If they are uncomfortable and don’t want to open up, that’s okay too - you’ve let them know you’re there for them.

If they do want to talk then really listen. 

Good listening involves giving the person your full attention, being patient and repeating things back to them so they know you’re paying attention.

Where to get help:

You can suggest the person goes to their GP for advice and support

SAMH gives mental health information and can direct you to local services. Call 0141 530 1000 or email enquire@samh.org.uk

If you need to talk, call Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 or see www.breathingspace.scot

Families who need support after being bereaved by suicide can contact PETAL on 01698 324 502 or email info@petalsupport.com

Call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or email the charity at jo@samaritans.org.