Michael Trotter Ph.D.’s Post

⚠ In Brazil, September is dedicated to suicide prevention and awareness. 'Setembro Amarelo' or 'Yellow September’ is the biggest anti-stigma campaign in the world. Yes, this is a heavy topic and not your 'traditional' LinkedIn professional related theme, but one that needs airtime because of the impact it can have on people´s life.  Unfortunately, I have lost more than one family member to it, and thus feel compelled to use my voice to contribute to spread awareness. 📈Although suicide numbers are decreasing worldwide, countries in the Americas are contradicting this trend, with rates that continue to rise, according to the World Health Organization. Globally, in 2019, more than 700 thousand cases were recorded, but due to underreported episodes, this number is forecast to actually be closer to 1 million cases/year. 💡 If you are a data person, read this statistic below and let it sink in. It is known that practically 100% of all suicide cases were related to mental illnesses, mainly undiagnosed or incorrectly treated. Therefore, in most cases it could have been avoided if people had access to psychiatric treatment and quality information. ❗ One first step for prevention that all of can grasb is very simple yet so profound, which is: do not suffer alone. Please find people you can trust and talk openly about your mental state. Particularly if you feel very intense, self-harming thoughts. I leave you with this gem of a video campaign: "at times, it can be obvious when someone is struggling to cope. But sometimes the signs are harder to spot. Check in on those around you."

🌟 For those who know me, I don't cry, but this video got me 🌟 At Epic Partners we want to equip our staff with the knowledge and confidence to spot the signs of mental health and identifying and assisting individuals contemplating suicide and we invite you to join us. We have teamed up with Steve Whittle, Tough To Talk and Gateley RJA to extend an invitation to you and your colleagues to participate in an essential training event, "Understanding Suicide Intervention & Networking with Epic Partners," scheduled for August 9, 2024, at Park View House NG1 5DW. https://lnkd.in/ewapwvBM Event Details: - Date: August 9, 2024 - Time: 9:30 AM - Location: Gateley, Park View House, NG1 5DW Only 5 places left Why is this training critical? 🔍 The Statistics: - In the UK, male suicide remains a pressing issue, with men accounting for three-quarters of all suicide deaths. - The latest data shows that around 4,300 men die by suicide each year. This men-only course offers a unique opportunity to delve into the theory and practice of suicide intervention skills applicable across various professional and personal settings. Over four hours, participants will engage in a comprehensive suicide prevention awareness session led by experienced trainers dedicated to empowering individuals with the confidence and know-how to intervene effectively with those at risk. Course Highlights: - Gain insight into suicide intervention theory and practice. - Explore strategies for identifying and assisting individuals contemplating suicide. - Learn how to provide vital support and referral pathways. - Network with professionals from diverse sectors, fostering collaboration and shared understanding. Why Attend? - Enhance your ability to support colleagues and networks in times of crisis. - Contribute to suicide prevention efforts in your community. - Support local charities, Epic Partners and Tough To Talk, dedicated to mental health advocacy and support. Your participation can make a real difference in addressing this critical issue. By equipping yourself with the skills and knowledge to intervene, you can help save lives and foster a more supportive environment for those in need. Let's come together to make a positive impact. Register now and be part of the solution. #SuicidePrevention #MentalHealthAwareness #EpicPartners #ToughToTalk #CommunitySupport #MensMentalHealth #InterventionTraining

As someone who's had more than his fair share of mental health struggles, I know how tough it can be to reach out. This November, during Men’s Mental Health Month, we’re reminded of the need to replace the old “man up” mentality with a simple but powerful message: “speak up.” It’s okay to share what’s going on, and strength is in opening up, not bottling things up. Every year, over 720,000 people worldwide lose their lives to suicide - that’s one person every 40 seconds (World Health Organization). Suicide is also is the third leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds worldwide. Here in the UK, 115 lives are lost to suicide each week, with 75% of those being men (Office for National Statistics). Men are over three times more likely to die by suicide in the UK; the male suicide rate was 17.1 per 100,000, compared to a female suicide rate of 5.6 per 100,000 (Samaritans). And this awareness isn’t just for November. The challenges don’t go away when the month ends. Checking in with our mates shouldn’t be a one-off - let’s make it a habit to reach out, regularly and genuinely. Sometimes, a simple “how are you really doing?” can make all the difference. Norwich City Football Club’s recent suicide prevention video delivers this message beautifully. It shows that even small gestures, like starting a conversation or listening, can have an immense impact. Using the power of sport, the club reminds us all that we can play a part in breaking down barriers around men’s mental health and creating a culture of support. Let’s keep talking, keep checking in with our mates, and remember: it’s okay not to be okay. If you're struggling to reach out to someone, there are fantastic organisations that can help such as Shout UK, Samaritans, Mind, Campaign Against Living Miserably, Rethink Mental Illness, YoungMinds, PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide and Together for Mental Wellbeing. #MensMentalHealth | #SpeakUpNotManUp | #MentalHealthAwareness | #ItsOkayNotToBeOkay | #CheckInOnYourMates | #SuicidePrevention

This Tuesday 10th September is World Suicide Prevention Day. The theme is “Changing the narrative on suicide” with an aim to reducing mental health condition stigma and a challenge to "Start the Conversation" I have been a long-term mental health advocate, but this is now deeply personal for me as I recently lost a family member to suicide.  It was completely unexpected. As I watch the ongoing waves of shock, devastation and pain crash through the family I am aware this loss also ripples through all those who are left behind, searching for meaning and answers. As a medical doctor I have seen firsthand the desolation that severe depression can inflict. It truly disorders thinking and limits what people believe are their options. Unaddressed it can to a very dark place where harm occurs. If you are coming across this post and this is your current experience, please reach out for help. That can be friends, family or local professional services including the free 24/7 support lines. It may seem grim now, but where there is life there is hope and things can get better. I believe with every fiber of my being that suicide can be prevented. It begins with recognising those who are struggling may still be able to maintain a “social face” but if something is just not right with someone, starting the conversation can save a life. We as friends, family, communities and societies need to move to a place where allowing people to talk about how they truly feel, rather than just social greetings, can become the norm. This requires trust that the listener will do this without judgment. This World Suicide Prevention Day I encourage all of us to pause and ask ourselves how we are there for the people around us ? A quiet conversation, a moment of genuine concern, or even a small act of kindness can be the bridge that someone needs to keep going. Let’s make mental health enquiry and support a routine conversation https://lnkd.in/dPsrQ_Xp https://lnkd.in/dUi-S8Jc https://lnkd.in/dKhCk2tF https://lnkd.in/dbhFcvKf #worldsuicidepreventionday #MentalHealthMatters #YouAreNotAlone #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #suicide #EndTheStigma #SupportIsKey #BreakTheSilence #Asktwice

Four in five suicides in the UK are by men. …and suicide is the biggest cause of death for men under 35. As we mark Men’s Health Week, let’s take a moment to talk about an unspoken issue in the construction industry: mental health. On LinkedIn, we talk a lot about PPE and ways to improve your physical safety on site, but we care equally about the mental well-being of the community. Unfortunately, there is no magic hard hat that can protect you from mental health difficulties in the same way a mask can protect you from sawdust. In 2021, we tragically lost 507 colleagues in the construction industry to suicide. In 2020, workers in construction were at some of the highest risks of suicide in the country; 3.7x higher than the national average. Mental health issues in our field are four times higher than in the general population, and a third of construction workers face elevated levels of anxiety every day. Your mental health matters just as much as your physical safety. If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t keep it to yourself. There’s help available whether you’d rather call, email, text, or live chat. Click here for a full range of services: https://lnkd.in/g--Rm92 The attached thought-provoking video was made last October by Norwich Football Club and made waves on the internet on release. In this time of heightened awareness, remember to reach out to your colleagues and friends. Let’s support each other and build a healthier, happier future together. https://lnkd.in/eDCiYfvM #mentalhealth #menshealthweek #menshealth #healthandsafety #samaritans Sources: UK Parliament, mind.org & MatesinMind.org

Check in with your loved ones to show love ❤️ and support. Even if there are no signs, they might need it more than you think. If you or someone you know is in need of immediate help, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 📞 988. https://lnkd.in/eDCiYfvM #mentalhealth #suicideprevention #youarenotalone

💚 On this Mental Health Awareness Week, I'm compelled to reflect on the impactful advertisement that resonated deeply with me: the Norwich City Football Club's ad for The Samaritans on #mentalhealthday last year. This subject holds immense significance for me personally, touching the core of human empathy and understanding. The ad stands as a testament to the power of simplicity in conveying a crucial message about the human experience: Individuals wrestling with internal battles frequently conceal their anguish beneath a veneer of normality. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of empathy and compassion in our interactions with others. In a world where appearances can deceive, this ad serves as a call to action, urging us to look beyond the surface and extend our support to those who may be silently battling their demons. It captures the core values of unity and comprehension on the path to mental wellness. As we navigate the complexities of mental health, let us draw inspiration from this powerful work of art and commit ourselves to fostering a culture of empathy, acceptance, and support. Together, let's endeavour to build a world where silence is not a burden anyone bears alone, and where empathy serves as our guiding principle. 💚 #mentalhealth #checkin #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthawarenessweek #bekind #YouAreNotAlone #wellness #empathy

It's OK to talk! This week was #SuicidePreventionDay, a critical time to emphasise the importance of open dialogue about mental health. Especially for men, who face significantly higher suicide rates, with the disparity proving to be a global health concern. For those that haven't seen this moving & relatable advert that Norwich City FC released last year, I would encourage you to take a watch! It really hits the mark with a powerful and relatable message to tackle this important issue, reminding viewers that "sometimes the toughest tackles are the ones you face alone." It is a fantastic example of how organisations can use their platform to make a positive impact. It's OK to talk, and reaching out to a friend, family member, colleague or #mentalhealthfirstaider can be the first step towards recovery. #mentalhealthawareness #youarenotalone

Today is #WorldMentalHealthDay. A simple 'Are you okay?' can mean the world to someone struggling silently. So my message to you is "how can I help you?". Let’s take a moment to reach out, listen, and show kindness—it might just make all the difference. 💚 #MentalHealthMatters #YouAreNotAlone #worldmentalhealthday2024

Today is #WorldSuicidePreventionDay. 🎗️ According to a recent Samaritans poll, only 45% of people are comfortable talking about suicidal thoughts. Suicide is also the biggest killer of men under 50 in the UK - a shocking statistic that highlights the importance of talking about this topic and creating an environment where people feel supported to reach out if they are struggling with their mental health. At Highway Care, we are working hard to create a mental health positive workplace, with regular check-ins, information sharing and four Mental Health First Aiders on the team. We are also offering all members of the team the opportunity to attend The Lighthouse Charity's ‘Suicide Awareness’ course, which outlines common reasons behind suicide, how to spot the signs of suicidal thoughts and behaviours and helps attendees develop the skills to support someone who may be at risk.  🎥 This powerful video is a reminder that suicide can be a hidden killer - it's not always those who appear to be vulnerable that are the most vulnerable. 👇 https://lnkd.in/e-3kNdmA #WSPD #suicidepreventation #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness