Suicide prevention for unpaid carers
Caring for someone at risk of suicide - and supporting yourself, too
Am I a carer?
You may be a parent, a partner, a child, a sibling or a friend to someone who needs support as a result of their illness (physical or mental illness and substance misuse), condition or disability.
If you provide them with help and support to manage their life – you are a carer.
The number of carers living in Scotland is estimated to be around 700,000 to 800,000. Many of these carers have never been in touch with support services.
You might not think of yourself as a ‘carer’ or indeed even like that label but its important to know that if you are supporting someone else, support is out there for you too.
In Scotland 36% of unpaid carers experience suicidal thoughts themselves - recognising and naming these thoughts is important for carers and the people they support.
Other people have same questions & thoughts. Why am I here? Why do I exist? Why do I feel this pain? Hearing from other people helped me realise that maybe I’m not so strange or alone.
If you’re not sure where to start, start here
You don’t need to do everything at once. Even small steps can make a difference.
Here are three things you can do today if you are worried about person you care for:
01 / Start a conversation
Let the person you care for know you’re there. You don’t need the perfect words. Just saying “I have been worried about you” can help someone feel less alone and more able to ask for help.
02 / Care for yourself
Supporting a person who is experiencing suicidal thoughts can be emotionally draining and stressful. It is important to look after yourself and find support. You could:
Talk to friends and family
Talk to someone on a helpline – see contacts below
Talk to your own doctor
Find support for yourself – you can find a range of local carers centres across Scotland on the Care Information Scotland website.
Continue to do the things you enjoy
Take time out for yourself – try exercise, going for a walk or mindfulness techniques to help you feel you are getting a break
Try talking therapies if you are experiencing anxiety, low mood or depression
03 / Remember it isn’t your sole responsibility to keep them safe.
If you’re worried, share your concerns and point them in the direction of support. If someone’s life is at immediate risk, phone 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
Support for carers
We've collated helpful links to resources specifically designed to support carers:
Information and advice for carers
Choose a section to find a range of resources and support that may help
Caring for someone at risk of suicide
As a carer we know you need to take a lot of responsibility. That becomes even harder if the person you support is having suicidal thoughts. In this section you'll find some helpful information and resources. Please know, you're not alone.
Caring for yourself as a carer
When someone you care for is experiencing thoughts of suicide we know that it put a lot of pressure on you. In this section, you'll find tips and information on protecting your own mental health, when things are difficult.