Talk to Us, if things are getting to you, don’t suffer alone, that is the message from the Samaritans and several other organisations that are available to us to use in that time of need. There is no shame in saying “I feel sad” or “I feel alone” or “I need to talk” or “I am worried…”. At this time of year, we can all feel the pressure of expectancy ie have I got all the food shopping, that parcel never arrived, what am I going to do, or have I bought the right present or I have not been able to go to the shops but rely on the internet … 2020 has been a very difficult year for all of us. This year, due to the pandemic more people will be on their own for the festive season.
Christmas can be a time of great fun but also for many a time of loneliness or sadness that there is a vacant seat at the dinner table, family get together. For those not alone, Christmas and New Year can find more family feuds and arguments between people. Many people will be fearing what lies ahead as we approach a New Year. Others will not have seen loved ones for 12 months and emotions are naturally high. Many of us are bereaved and wonder what the future ahead will bring.
2 years ago at our December SDN meeting, one of our Guest Speakers was Richard Dunhill from The Samaritans. He gave a very powerful presentation, with a message for everyone. That message is still the same today “Talk to us (The Samaritans) anytime you like, in your own way-about whatever’s getting to you” Call 116 123 anytime. (free from any place)
Note- Don’t be afraid to seek help. You don’t have to be suicidal. Samaritans work round the clock, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you need a response immediately, it’s best to call them on the phone. You don’t have to be suicidal to call. It doesn’t matter who you are, how you feel, or what has happened. All calls are treated in confidence.
Ways you can contact the Samaritans:
- Call 116 123. (This number is FREE to call) Whatever you’re going through, call us free any time, from any phone on 116 123.
- Email: jo@samaritans.org
You can also chat on line -Enter the waiting room at this link: https://webchat.samaritans.org/
Remember: No Samaritan will won’t judge you or tell you what to do.
You can find more information at the Samaritans website: https://www.samaritans.org