Mental health crisis
If you are worried about your own or someone else’s mental health, call 111 and select the mental health option (option 2). This call is free and will enable you to speak to a mental health professional in Cornwall. Anyone, any age, any time. You can also call the Samaritans on 116 123 or text ‘Shout’ to 85258
Call 999 or go to the emergency department now if:
- someone's life is at risk, for example they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose
- you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe
People in Mind
A collaboration between a number of community sector organisations. They offer non-urgent mental health support for people who are 16 and older in in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly. You can call 01872 266383 via a dedicated telephone line 7 days a week 8am – 8pm or email welcome@kernowgateway.org.uk
Additional resources for emotional and psychological wellbeing can be found on the Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust website.
Appropriate Language Statement
When we talk about suicide, we need to think carefully about the effect of the language that we use. Please refer to the following for appropriate language examples.
Appropriate Language Statement
Suicide Prevention Strategy
Suicide prevention and the promotion of good mental health is a key priority in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
The local suicide rate is higher than the average in the South West and England. On average more than one person dies by suicide every week in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Each one of these deaths is a tragic loss. It has a devastating impact on families, friends, colleagues, communities and services.
Our vision is a Cornwall and Isles of Scilly with zero suicides, where people can live healthy, fulfilling and connected lives; and where anybody in need and in crisis is supported by their communities and services that work together to improve wellbeing
There are four strategic priorities for action to deliver this strategy.
- Strong local intelligence network and sharing of best practice
- Promotion of healthier, more connected and safer communities
- Targeted suicide prevention and early intervention
- Support for people impacted by suicide
Read the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Suicide Prevention Strategy 2022-2027
Mental Health Safety Plans
A Mental Health Safety Plan is a preventative tool designed to help support those who struggle with mental wellbeing. It may be difficult to think clearly when you’re feeling really low, or feel incredibly overwhelmed, and it may be difficult to ignore these feelings. Safety plans are best created when not in crisis.
By having a safety plan, you’re making sure that there are strategies you can use to keep yourself safe and can help you feel more in control when everything feels out of control. Think of your safety plan as your ‘mental health first-aid kit’; it includes different things that will help you through a crisis.
For more information about Safety Planning and to download your Mental Health Safety Plan please visit our Mental Health Safety Plan page.
Towards Zero
In Cornwall the ‘Towards Zero Suicide’ campaign began in 2016. It's based on the belief that a systematic approach to care can prevent suicide deaths for people under care in health systems. We have continued with the annual Towards Zero events as a way to bring together a community of people who are working to reduce suicides in the county.
Find out more on our Towards Zero pages.