September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day, an important global awareness event. To mark it, local charity Dorset Mind is launching its campaign to #GetDorsetTalking.

Although they don't provide a crisis service themselves, the mental health charity knows that talking and raising awareness about suicide is key to removing the stigma that is a crippling barrier that stops people reaching out for support.

Many factors contribute to poor mental health and suicide, including problems with employment, finances, accessing benefits and housing. The impending fuel poverty, brought around by the cost-of-living crisis means that suicide awareness is even more important this year.

Whilst hard-hitting, the charity's overriding message is one of hope – letting people know that they are not alone and that support is available.

If you have mental health or financial problems, the first step towards help is to talk about it -before the issues become unmanageable. Share the load with a friend, family member or colleague – or speak to your GP, healthcare professional or Citizens Advice team.

You can also reach out to Dorset Mind. Talking is at the heart of the 1-2-1 and group support the charity delivers for adults and young people across Dorset. To compliment this, their expert training team aims to educate people about mental health, using their own lived experience to bring an authentic dimension to their interactive training. This also encourages delegates to contribute to the conversation.

Linda O'Sullivan, CEO at Dorset Mind commented: "Talking is the first step towards getting timely, appropriate help. We know that reaching out for help can be extremely difficult for people with mental health problems, but there are organisations, charities and people that genuinely want to help. World Suicide Prevention Day raises awareness helps let people know it's ok to do this. You don't have to do this or be alone – let's get Dorset talking."

Dr Andrew Mayers, Patron of Dorset Mind and Samaritans of Bournemouth and District added: "It is so important that we have those conversations about and mental health, and we should not be afraid of talking about suicidal thoughts. When speaking to someone who is struggling with their mental health, we often hesitate when asking if they feel suicidal, in case it puts that thought in their head. In reality, it's likely that the thought is already there. Talking about it gets that thought out in the open and provides the opportunity to find help and support. Talking about suicidal thoughts can save lives."

If you're finding things tough and need support, please reach out to the following organisations that can help you:

• Call the Samaritans 24/7 on 116 123;

• Speak to Dorset's NHS mental health 'Connection' helpline - 24/7 on 0800 652 0190, or

• Call CALM on 0800 585858 (5pm to midnight).

• Call Mind for information or signposting on 0300 123 3393 (weekdays 9am to 6pm).

• Or, text SHOUT to 85258 for text support.

For Crisis support in Dorset, follow this link: http://bit.ly/DMcrisis

You can also visit Dorset Mind's website to see what 1-2-1 and group support they offer adults and young people across Dorset.