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Finding Your Anchor: Staying Safe When Thoughts Overwhelm


Life can feel overwhelmingly difficult at times. When those moments descend, and thoughts

of ending your life creep in, its crucial to remember that you're not alone and there is support

available. NHS England 'Staying Safe from Suicide' page offers invaluable guidance and

practical steps to help you navigate these dark times and find your way back to safety.


This isn't about ignoring the pain you're feeling. It's about acknowledging it while equipping

yourself with tools and strategies to get through it, one moment at a time. The page

emphasises that suicidal thoughts are often temporary, even if they don't feel that way right

now.


Building Your Safety Net: Practical Steps You Can Take


The NHS resource outlines several key actions you can take to protect yourself when feeling

vulnerable:


Talk to Someone: This might seem incredibly difficult, but reaching out is a sign of

strength. Whether it's a friend, family member, GP, mental health professional, or a

helpline, sharing your feelings can provide immense relief and support. Knowing

someone is there to listen can make a significant difference. Stable Minds in

Knutsford offers a drop-in 9am till 12 pm every week, pop in.


Create a Safety Plan: This is a proactive step you can take even when you're feeling

okay. It involves identifying your triggers, coping strategies, and who to contact in a

crisis. Writing it down can make it easier to access and follow when you're struggling.

The NHS page provides a template and guidance on how to create your own

personalised safety plan. https://stayingsafe.net/


Identify Your Reasons for Living: Even when things feel bleak, there are often

things that matter to you – people you love, dreams for the future, or even small

comforts that bring you joy. Reminding yourself of these reasons can provide a vital

anchor in the storm.


Distract Yourself: When overwhelming thoughts arise, finding healthy distractions

can help shift your focus. This could be listening to music, watching a comforting

movie, going for a walk, engaging in a hobby, or spending time with a pet.

 Challenge Negative Thoughts: Suicidal thoughts are often accompanied by

negative and distorted thinking. Try to identify these thoughts and challenge their

validity. Are they based on facts, or are they assumptions?


Limit Access to Harmful Means:


If you're having thoughts of suicide, taking steps to remove or restrict access to things you could use to harm yourself is a crucial safety measure. This might involve asking someone to hold onto medication or

temporarily removing yourself from situations where harmful means are readily

available.

Know Where to Get Immediate Help:


In a crisis, knowing who to turn to immediately is vital. The NHS page provides a list of emergency contact numbers, including the 999 emergency service and mental health crisis lines. Keep these

numbers readily accessible.


Okay to Seek Help – You Are Not a Burden


The NHS England page powerfully emphasizes that seeking help is not a sign of weakness,

and you are not a burden. Reaching out is a courageous step towards protecting yourself

and finding a path towards recovery.


Small Steps Can Lead to Big Changes


Remember that recovery is a journey, and it often starts with small steps. Be kind to yourself,

acknowledge your feelings, and don't hesitate to reach out for support. The information and

resources provided by the NHS are a valuable starting point in finding your anchor and

staying safe.


If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please know that help is available. You

can contact the following in the UK:


 999 for emergencies

 NHS 111 (option 2) for mental health support

 Samaritans: Call free on 116 123

 Shout: Text SHOUT; to 85258



Please reach out. Your life matters.



 
 
 

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