WITH more than 200 people taking their own life in Greater Manchester each year, a new campaign has been launched to encourage people to talk about suicide.

The #shiningalightonsuicide campaign has been created to prevent suicides and aims to get people talking about the matter.

It follows research and evidence from people who have considered suicide, that talking honestly and openly about suicide helped to save their lives.

As suicide is the biggest killer of men under 49 and women aged between 20 to 34 in the Greater Manchester region, it could not be more timely.

Regional leaders and partner agencies such as the NHS, the army, police, councils and the Samaritans are backing the campaign, which was commissioned by Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership.

Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said: “We are losing parents, children, friends, colleagues - the people around us - to suicide and this campaign is right, enough is enough.

“For every suicide that occurs, there are up to 20 more suicide attempts and one in five of us have had suicidal thoughts at some point.

“The #shiningalightonsuicide campaign will not only highlight the facts about suicide in our city region but show people that there is nothing to be feared in talking about suicide and mental health.

“By getting people to talk openly about suicide, the campaign will hopefully help reduce suicide and improve mental health. “

The campaign, which includes a website, explains how to help those with suicidal thoughts and support those bereaved by suicide – providing information to support organisations.

Personal stories and short films have also been created, featuring people from across the city region who have been directly affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts.

One of them is former rugby league star Danny Sculthorpe. He was left tormented by depression and suicidal thoughts after a career-ending spinal injury at the age of 30.

Jon Rouse, chief officer of the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “Sadly too many people lose their lives to suicide, leaving devastated families to pick up the pieces.

“This campaign aims to shift the focus of care to prevention, early intervention and resilience by creating a culture where it’s seen as okay to speak openly and honestly about suicide.

“Through ‘Shining a Light on Suicide’ we are aiming to remove the stigma associated with suicide, so the entire Greater Manchester community understands their role in helping us reduce suicide in our region.”

The stigma surrounding suicide means there is a reluctance to broach the subject, but talking about it is one of the things that potential victims need the most.

To find out more visit the campaign website at www.shiningalightonsuicide.org.uk. Those struggling to cope can call Samaritans on 116 123.