UK Health Minister Launches Public Information Campaign On Suicide Awareness

Health Minister Paul Goggins has launched a major public information campaign aimed at de-stigmatising mental health and promoting suicide prevention and awareness.

The campaign forms part of the wider North/South co-operation on suicide prevention, and the "It's Me" television advertisement will be shown throughout the Island of Ireland.

Minister Goggins said: "Research shows that poor mental health is often a contributory factor in many local suicides. The attitudes and stigma associated with mental illness must change. People should feel confident to talk about their mental health and have access to the support and services that can reduce the likelihood of them going on to take their own lives.

"The public information campaign highlights the fact that mental illness can affect any one of us. Taking control of our mental health through simple measures such as talking about our problems or taking part in physical activity can make a real difference."

The information campaign is being taken forward as part of the implementation of the Northern Ireland Suicide Prevention Strategy, "Protect Life- A Shared Vision". It highlights the need to reduce the stigma around the issue of mental health, in order to get people talking about their problems.

The Minister continued: "I welcome the co-operation with the Republic of Ireland in delivering this important message. Working with the Department of Health and Children, this advertisement will play an important part in helping spearhead suicide prevention public information campaigns north and south of the border."