13/05/2026
It's Mental Health Awarness Week....
I have been working as a Veterinary Nurse for 23 years and also spent nearly a decade as a Police Officer. In both careers I have supported people who have lost loved ones by su***de.
A couple of years ago, someone I knew well took their own life. Needless to say I was devastated. I started to question the conversations I had had with them, did I do enough, say enough ?
I came to realise that I had spoken to them a lot in the weeks leading up to that day. That was the point. Talking to people is the one thing you can do. Reach out, have a conversation, ask them how they are. Ask them if they are having thoughts of su***de. It won’t make it worse and it could in fact save their life. After you have read this, take the time and say hello to someone you care about. Ask them, “How are you doing”
Thankyou.
Mel
How to prevent su***de and support people affected by su***de. This page has advice and signposting to help you get support you need.