Sign up for our Dawn Walk on 10 September 2023
Join us on a Dawn Walk this World Suicide Prevention Day
Our branch is hosting a Dawn Walk on World Suicide Prevention Day in Inverleith Park, Edinburgh and we invite you to join us in watching the sunrise and walking 5K around the Park to help raise funds for our branch.
Registration is open and we are meeting at 5.45 am on Sunday 10 September in Inverleith Park, with the walk starting at 6 am.
“These are tough times right now and more people may find themselves struggling to cope. Dawn Walk is a great way to help look after your own mental health while helping ensure Samaritans volunteers are there for those in need of our support." Bruce, Director of our branch.
Break the taboo of talking about Suicide
With the cost of living rising sharply, following an incredibly challenging few years, people may find themselves or loved ones feeling more worried or anxious, the UK’s leading suicide prevention charity is trying to reduce the stigma around suicide and urging people to look out for each other.
“If someone is feeling suicidal, they might be distant or distracted or feel disconnected. Asking someone directly if they’re having suicidal thoughts can give them the chance to tell you how they feel.
“You don’t have to be an expert, just being there to listen and showing you care can help. Letting them know they’re not a burden and there’s always someone they can turn to.
“Suicide can be seen as a taboo subject, so it is important people know it is OK to ask things like, “Are you feeling suicidal?” as it helps the topic of suicide enter conversations more.” Bonnie, an Edinburgh Volunteer
Evidence* shows that asking someone if they’re suicidal doesn’t make things worse, it can protect people, as it provides a crucial opportunity to open up, express their feelings and seek help.
To help initiate conversations around suicidal thoughts, asking direct questions including ‘Have you thought about ending your life?’ and ‘Are you saying that you want to die?’, we've pulled together useful tips and assets to help you.
If you can’t take part on Sunday 10 September, but would still like to get involved, why not take part virtually on a date of your choosing? Visit our Dawn Walk Registration Page for full information.
* Dazzi, T., Gribble, R., Wessely, S., & Fear, N. (2014). Does asking about suicide and related behaviours induce suicidal ideation? What is the evidence? Psychological Medicine, 44(16), 3361-3363. doi:10.1017/S0033291714001299