The UK government have launched a new National Suicide Prevention Strategy to help reduce increasing suicide rates in the UK.
Nurses were highlighted as being at ‘particular risk’ of suicide due to a ‘unique combination’ of demands and stressors in the workplace.
As a result, ministers are working closely with the NHS to provide better mental health services and advice for those at risk of suicide in the healthcare sector.
The toolkit also seeks to support individuals who have engaged in self-harm and those who have experienced the loss of a loved one due to suicide.
Co-commissioners, Dame Ruth and Dr Evans said: “NHS staff have always gone above and beyond to support the millions of patients they care for every day but looking after ourselves and our people is of paramount importance too.
“The pandemic created an environment with unprecedented challenges for staff, who were also dealing with the impact of lockdowns and grief in their personal lives.
“We are committed to building on our existing resources to support the mental health and wellbeing of NHS staff, and to creating environments where staff feel able to be honest about how they are feeling and comfortable in asking for help,” they added.
The document arrives as part of a national commitment to drastically reduce suicides in the UK over the next five years.
Minister for mental health and women’s health Maria Caulfield, commented: “The impact of suicide on individuals and loved ones is devastating.
“This strategy will bolster the work this government is already undertaking to reduce the number of suicides, and help us intervene where needed as early as possible.”
If you or anyone you know is struggling with their mental health or thoughts of self-harm, please reach out to a trusted healthcare professional, such as your GP or call 999 in an emergency.
You can also access free mental health support via the NHS mental health and wellbeing hubs.
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