Ahead of Suicide Awareness Day on Sunday, we want to share a poem written by a service user, sharing their experience. It is about hope and how our Acute Therapy Service provided much needed intervention and support at a time of need.

“When you hit rock bottom and are struggling to survive,

When you’ve given up all hope, that happiness will arrive.

It’s easy to be scared, when the darkest days draw in,

You want to do whatever you can to silence the mental din.

But even though, you may feel, you have lost that hope,

There are others surrounding you, who’ll teach you how to cope.

So that’s why I am here right now – to do whatever I can,

To try and make recovery a hard but positive plan.

I’m always been so grateful for the people all around,

Those who in the deepest ditch can bring me back to ground,

I’m meeting lots of people here, who know how life can be,

Even when I’m blinded, they can help me see.

I’ll join in all the sessions, and learn new ways to do,

Things that will be helpful, to use to get me through.

I’m grateful, that ATS, is here to do such things,

And they will stick right by your side, whatever your life brings.

So thanks a lot for me helping me and showing me the light,

Now that I’m receiving help, the future can be right.”

We know it’s an emotional topic for many people but we want to remind people how getting help can change a life.

If you need urgent help and in distress, then there is always someone you can call.

Our Mental Health Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 0800 953 0110. It is staffed by trained mental health professionals who are able to provide assessment and referrals to appropriate services. Ring it if you need to access services or for advice about someone who needs treatment or support.