Academics seek to 'change the narrative' around Suicide

LJMU’s Suicide and Self-Harm Research Group is at the forefront of a new national campaign to change the narrative around suicide.

Professor Pooja Saini, one of the leading researchers in the field in the north west, was joined by Ian Byrne MP and LJMU Honorary Fellow and ‘Three Dads’ campaigner Mike Palmer for the launch which sees LJMU psychologists collaborate with charity Grassroots Suicide Prevention and the Mersey Care Mental Health for Research Innovation Centre, in Liverpool.

“We’re looking forward to working with M-RIC and the NHS and local authorities on prevention and early intervention to reduce suicide rates, improve support for people who have self-harmed and improve support for people bereaved by suicide," said Pooja, who is also the research lead at James's Place.

Every week an average of 115 people die by suicide in the UK and it is the nation’s leading cause of death of the under-35s.

The collaboration follows the recent launch of a new podcast series hosted by Gemma Cutting and Professor Saini, featuring stories, expert insights and practical solutions to break the stigma surrounding suicide.

The podcast, Let’s Talk Hope: Ending the Stigma around Suicide features in-depth, thoughtful conversations with a diverse range of experts, individuals with lived experience and dedicated professionals within the mental health sector.

Pooja said: “I wanted to create this series to showcase voices of lived experience and those working tirelessly to make a difference. Through this podcast, we hope to reach a wider audience and inspire meaningful, lasting change.”

IMAGE: Rt Hon Ian Byrne, MP for Liverpool West Derby with Professor Pooja Sani.