PEOPLE across Cumbria are being urged to talk about mental health and suicide to help save lives.

Cumbria Suicide Prevention leadership group wants to ensure anyone struggling is aware of the support available to stay mentally safe and well.

The multi-agency group has launched a new website - stopsuicidenenc.org - to provide help and advice about mental wellbeing, support for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, and guidance for those bereaved by suicide.

Households across the county will also receive a booklet which includes advice and information about managing health and wellbeing during the Covid-19 outbreak, as well as advice on how to support others.

Superintendent Carl Patrick, of Cumbria Constabulary, said in these challenging times it is important to talk to those who might be struggling to help prevent anyone feeling they are alone and unable to cope.

"Suicide can affect anyone and we all can play our part to reduce the risk," he said.

"If you are concerned that someone is having suicidal thoughts then ask them directly, listen to what they have to say and get them help if it is needed.

"There is lots of information available from the Suicide Prevention Network and I would encourage people to visit this website should they need help.

"Speaking about mental health can be difficult for some people and often those in distress can find it challenging to open up. Therefore it is vital that we all look out for one another to help those seriously affected by mental health."

Chris Wood, of local charity Every Life Matters, which produced the Wellbeing and mental health during Covid-19 booklet, along with mental health specialists, said the current situation presents some big challenges to people’s mental health and wellbeing.

He said: "Many of our coping mechanisms, and activities that underpin our wellbeing, are no longer available and we need to be more thoughtful and creative about how we manage our stress, anxieties and mental health generally.

"We have written this booklet to give people practical information and guidance on what we can all do to cope emotionally during the crisis.”

Katherine McGleenan, North East and North Cumbria Suicide Prevention Lead added: “I have worked as a mental health nurse for over 30 years and have seen the devastating impact poor mental health can have on people’s lives.

"I have also seen how, with the right support, people can become mentally well again, even in difficult circumstances. We want people to know there is support available and to know how to access help if needed, and that they don’t need to cope alone.”

If you feel your mental health is deteriorating and you need to speak with someone contact the Samaritans on 116123. If someone’s life is at immediate risk please call 999.

Visit every-life-matters.org.uk or stopsuicidenenc.org for support.