Cambridgeshire man in 'very dark place' says talking about suicide saved life
Nick has been able to move on after opening up about his mental health
A man from Cambridgeshire who considered taking his own life after a family breakdown says being able to open up about suicidal thoughts saved him.
"I was in a very dark place; I was ready to not be here truthfully," Nick said.
"That was when I knew if things carry on as they are, I'm not going to be here."
Around two years ago, Nick lost his family and business and left the area.
He was then referred to CPSL Mind by his GP whom he kept in regular contact with, having initially struggled to talk about suicide.
Nick is now leading a new life thanks to the support he's received through the charity's community connector service.
'You know help is there'
"I was very shocked by how quick these teams are able to get involved in trying to help; even if it is just a point of contact, you know help is there and they want to help you," he said.
"You could tell they've thought about it from the previous conversation to the next one; they may have advice or a bit of understanding that eventually made me feel more open to talking about where my head was at."
Research by CPSL Mind found in Cambridgeshire, suicide rates in Peterborough and Fenland are above the national average.
While a report by Mind published last year showed around one in five adults live with a common mental health condition.
Thinking positively
For Nick - a keen explorer - he is moving on with life thanks to the support he's received.
"I regularly travel around the UK, climbing mountains, exploring, finding waterfalls," he said.
"Where they (CPSL Mind) seem to help a lot was with encouragement and picking up on your good assets rather than the negatives, and I think that alone made a big difference because you then start to believe in yourself.
"Trying to catch things (people in need) at the right time will be difficult, but with the right eyes on the situations and the knowledge places like CPSL Mind have, if they can tackle things earlier, that's going to benefit everyone."
Statistics show in the UK, more than 7,000 people a year die by suicide.
Olivia Hubbard, communications and engagement manager at CPSL Mind, said progress is being made in getting people to talk about suicide.
But more work can still be done.
"Especially for men, they might find it challenging to talk, but it's important people know there are safe spaces to come and meet like-minded individuals, and as soon as you do start those conversations, you can support your wellbeing," Olivia said.
"It's important to ask directly about suicide to something, to listen and to signpost for support."
Where to turn for help
The Hub of Hope will help connect you with services in your area.
You can call Samaritans 24/7 on 116 123.
Other charities such as Lifecraft also offer support for anyone in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough having concerns with their mental health.