Open Minds Alliance CIC, Samaritans, the Royal College of Psychiatrists and Southwick Media Consultancy are leading the U can Cope multimedia multiagency media campaign to support and promote the Suicide Prevention
The alliance is delighted to have contributed to the Professional Cricketers’ Association Mental Health learning resource. Dr Alys Cole-King contributed to the module on self-harm and suicide prevention.
www.thepca.co.uk/mind-matters.html
I am delighted to have the opportunity to collaborate with the Professional Cricketers’ Association, such a high profile and highly respected sporting organisation – this is the way that we will win ’hearts and minds’ in the fight against suicide. It is one thing when I urge people to seek help early but a fantastically powerful message when said by an elite athlete who commands so much respect from around the world.
U Can Cope have commissioned a film entitled U Can Cope which was released on 10th September 2012.
The film promotes 3 main messages:
1. Anyone can experience suicidal thoughts.
2. There is always hope.
3. There is always help.
‘I give my full support to the U Can Cope campaign. The film is excellent. I am sure, for those that come across the film, it will have a positive impact on reducing stigma and raising awareness of mental health issues and suicidal behaviour enabling people to respond more compassionately to those struggling with these problems. The personal stories of those depicted in the film and how they managed to cope with their situations and feelings will hopefully inspire others to seek help early, while the expert statements give the campaign a broader context.
It is great to see such an initiative come out of Wales and I would encourage everyone to watch it and for them to encourage their family, friends and colleagues to do the same.’
Dr Ann John, Chair of the National Advisory Group on Suicide and Self-harm Prevention to the Welsh Government
Lead for Suicide and Self-Harm Prevention for Public Health Wales, Clinical Senior Lecturer in Public Mental Health, Swansea College of Medicine