Artwork to combat suicide taboo

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/scotland/6987052.stm

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A new artwork has been unveiled to raise awareness of suicide and its impact across Scotland.

Choose Life, Scotland's national strategy to prevent suicide, unveiled the 20 x 10 ft collage.

The work features the faces of almost 500 people from all over Scotland and spells out the word 'Suicide'.

Charlie and Craig Reid of the Proclaimers and Shona Robison, Minister for Public Health, launched the artwork.

The launch coincides with the start of Suicide Prevention Week.

The sea of faces in the picture includes people from all walks of life, as well as The Proclaimers, radio presenters, the first minister and other politicians and personalities.

We know that in many cases suicide can be prevented if people get the right help and support to see a way out of their situation Shona RobisonMinister for Public Health

Ms Robison said: "Helping people break the silence to talk about suicide and its prevention is vital for Scotland's overall health and wellbeing.

"Although the figures since 2000 suggest there may be a downward trend emerging, each and every suicide is a tragedy.

"We know that in many cases suicide can be prevented if people get the right help and support to see a way out of their situation.

"That is why it is so important to talk about our own feelings and the difficulties we face, and also to listen to others, not just this week during Suicide Prevention Week but at all times."

Caroline Farquhar, head of implementation at Choose Life, said there was a myth that talking about suicide and its prevention makes the problem worse.

'Modern approach'

She said: "This couldn't be further from the truth. Being open and honest about our feelings, including those around suicide, and having people to listen without judging can actually save lives.

"Suicide prevention is everyone's business and we want many more people in Scotland to submit their photographs and pledge their support."

Charlie and Craig Reid said: "Talking about the subject of suicide is one of life's great taboos.

"We believe the courageous work of Choose Life and its modern approach will save lives."