Yeovil Samaritans encourage people to get talking

Released On 15th Jul 2019

‘It’s July, the advent of the summer holidays in England, and there’s no better time to talk.’  So says Sarah Coote, Director of Samaritans Yeovil, Sherborne & District.  ‘Families and friends will be preparing to get together over the holiday period and while this will undoubtedly be a happy time for many, Samaritans want to encourage those who may be in distress to open up and talk, and for those around them to really take the time to listen.’ 

According to Samaritans, suicide continues to be a national social issue in the UK and is the biggest killer of men under the age of 45. 

This month, Samaritans is calling on everyone to play a part in helping to reduce the number of lives taken by suicide. 

‘Listening to someone who needs an ear can really help and in extreme circumstances, could even help save a life.  But it’s a real skill that requires both time and thought.  Why not make a start by bearing in mind Samaritans’ SHUSH easy to follow listening tips?

SHUSH 

• Show you care – focus on the other person, make eye contact and put away your phone. 
• Have Patience – it may take time as well as several attempts before someone opens up.  Don’t rush them. 
• Use open-ended questions that require more than a yes/no answer to encourage conversation such as ‘tell me more…..’
• Say it back – to check you’ve understood and reassure the person that they have your undivided attention.  But don’t judge, interrupt or offer a solution. 
• Have courage – don’t be put off by a negative response and, most importantly, don’t feel you have to fill in the silences. 

If you think your friends of family need more help than you can offer, do urge them to call a Professional.  Samaritans listening volunteers are fully trained to help callers explore their feelings anonymously and without fear of judgement.  Calls are free to 116 123 (even if you don’t have any mobile phone credit).  All calls are conducted in complete confidence.