THOUSANDS of young people are being asked to find out more about the hidden reasons behind mental health issues and suicide.

A series of events are being held in South Ayrshire to coincide with Suicide Prevention Week (10-16 September 2018).

The national Choose Life ‘Read between the lines’ campaign asks everyone, regardless of age, to be alert to the warning signs of suicide in people close to them.

If you’re worried about someone, such as a friend, family member or workmate, asking them directly about their feelings can help to save their life.

During Suicide Prevention Week the South Ayrshire Choose Life team will be at Fresher’s events at the Ayr campuses of Ayrshire College and the University of the West of Scotland.

‘Read between the lines’ promotional material will also be distributed to other local student venues, while South Ayrshire Council will be promoting a positive message in all eight of its secondary schools with more activity planned for later in the year.

Choose Life have information cards and leaflets widely available that provide information on how to help - for example, advice on starting conversations about suicide and listening effectively.

Mental Health Minister, Clare Haughey, said: “Every life matters and no death by suicide should be regarded as either acceptable or inevitable.

"Over the past decade, Scotland has made real progress in reducing deaths by suicide but we want to go further.

"Our view is that suicide is preventable, and where anyone contemplating suicide or who has lost a loved one to suicide should get the support they need."

For more information about Choose Life and suicide prevention, visit: www.chooselife.net.