Trust reaffirms support is available for those in despair

The Northern Health and Social Care Trust wants anyone who is finding it hard to cope to know that there is help and support available.

Lifeline, Northern Ireland’s confidential crisis helpline supports individuals and families suffering despair and can be contacted on 0808 808 8000. Lifeline counsellors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to listen and give confidential help.

Northern Trust Senior Health Promotion Officer, Geraldine McDonnell said,

“The Northern Trust really values the Lifeline service. We know that people who take their own lives often have not mentioned how they were feeling to friends or members of their family. We encourage anyone who is having difficulty coping to talk to friends or family members, or to seek help from Lifeline. It doesn’t matter how old you are or where you live, if you or someone you know is in distress or despair, Lifeline is there to help you.”

A range of information and other support services is also available:

The Northern Trust website gives mental health advice and details of support services.
Minding Your Head website includes information on mental health support services.
Samaritans helpline provides a listening ear for those in distress. Tel: 0845 7909 090.
Debtline can provide help and support for anyone with financial difficulties. Tel: 0800 027 4990 or contact your local. Citizens Advice Bureau
Aware Defeat Depression offers a range of support services for those with depression. Tel: 0845 120 2961.
CRUSE Bereavement Support is available for adults and children after a bereavement. Tel: 0844 477 9400.
Domestic Violence Helpline is there for anyone affected by domestic abuse, men and women. Tel: 0800 917 1414.
The Northern Trust Bereaved by Suicide Support Project helps support families and friends affected by suicide. This service, funded by the Public Health Agency as part of the Protect Life Suicide Prevention Strategy, offers a counselling service and support groups for those who have been bereaved through suicide. If you would like more information contact the Bereaved by Suicide Support Project on 028 2563 6607.

We encourage anyone who is having a difficult time to talk about how they are feeling to family or friends, their GP or to the support services above. You are not alone and help is always available.

28th January 2013