At a recent Suicide Awareness and Prevention event at the Scottish Parliament, RSABI gathered alongside several mental health charities.

Organised by MSP Jim Fairlie, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, the event featured Professor Rory O’Connor, President of the International Association for Suicide Prevention, who emphasised the profound challenge posed by suicide.

Globally, one in 100 deaths result from suicide, with 762 suicides recorded in Scotland in 2022, directly impacting an average of 135 individuals per death. Professor O’Connor underscored each death as a tragedy, stressing “we have to do all we can to understand and prevent suicide”.

While the complexities surrounding suicide are diverse, Professor O’Connor stressed the life-saving significance of compassion, care, and connection. Notably, three-quarters of all suicides are male.

Represented alongside RSABI were Samaritans Scotland, SSAFA, the Armed Forces Charity, and Andy’s Man Club. Carol McLaren CEO of RSABI underscored: “Tragically, too many people of all ages involved in agriculture are still taking their lives by suicide and this event was a timely reminder of the role everyone can play in helping to prevent suicide in our communities.

“Our #KeepTalking campaign is very much led by a drive for compassion, care and connection and our thanks go to everyone who got behind our campaign this year, encouraging people in agricultural communities to look out for each other. Showing kindness and taking time to support and really listen to someone who may be struggling can make a world of difference.”

RSABI are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Offering free advice on practical, financial, and emotional support via phone or webchat. Confidentiality is also underpinned as calls will not show on phone bills. Reach out by calling 0808 1234 555 or via www.rsabi.org.uk where you will find information on the charities Thrive Mental Wellbeing app.