On World Suicide Prevention Day, members of Samaritans Scotland's Lived Experience Advisory Group (LEAG) shared their thoughts on the power of interruption.
The 10th of September 2025 marked World Suicide Prevention Day, and our message to people in Scotland was to show they care, interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts, and help to save a life.
Research released by Samaritans this year indicated that over half of adults in Scotland (68%) would appreciate someone check offering words of support if they were struggling to cope. However, nearly half of the respondents in Scotland (38%) admitted avoiding initiating a conversation with someone who didn’t seem okay. For some, they were worried they’d say the wrong thing. For others, they worried their help wouldn’t be welcomed.
Scotland's Lived Experience Advisory Group came together to share the below statement, as well as sharing some of their own personal experiences with interruption.
“If you think someone is struggling, even a stranger, it’s okay to reach out. A simple question like ‘are you okay?’ can be an interruption that saves a life. Even a small moment of connection can bring hope. That moment whispers: wait, stay, breathe.”
Lived Experience Advisory Group, Scotland
Many people may feel uncomfortable asking someone outright if they are having suicidal thoughts. We are encouraging people not to be afraid to ask the question, or of using the word ‘suicide’, as this gives people permission to open up. Talking about suicide doesn’t have to be frightening, it shows that you care and gives the person space to share how they’re feeling.
The message from the LEAG is a simple one, but a powerful one - interruption can save lives.
"When I've believed I've had no other option or any way back from where my thoughts have taken me, my sister, more than once has recognised that I've not been myself and gave me the space to consider that living is possible. She simply asked and listened".
Donna
Donna
"At times when my thoughts are spiraling downwards and urges to harm myself increasing, I try to remind myself of when someone suggested at these times I press the pause button. I picture the button and give myself a bit of time to allow in the possibility that things may change or ask for help."
Isabella
Isabella
Whilst it can be a difficult topic, you don’t have to be an expert or know the exact ‘right’ thing to say. Being there and showing that you care can make all the difference. Listen with empathy and without judgement to help the person open up about how they’re feeling, and don’t be afraid to ask someone if they’re feeling suicidal.
Danielle Rowley, Head of Policy and Communications at Samaritans Scotland, said:
“It’s so important that we talk about suicide in order to prevent suicide, even though it can be challenging to approach and difficult to know what to say.
We want to encourage people to feel confident and safe speaking about suicide, and not to be afraid of using the word. If you are worried about someone, asking them if they feel suicidal almost gives permission for them to talk about it too. By allowing people to talk about how they really feel, we can help to save lives.”
To help people feel empowered to initiate a conversation with someone who may be feeling suicidal, Samaritans put together a guide on how to interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts with simple tips and advice, led by those with lived and living experience. You can find the guide here.
In the guide, people can find ways to begin a conversation, how to be there for someone in the moment, how to listen without judgement, and how to help the person take their mind off how they’re feeling.
More information about the campaign can be found on our webpage here.