AN app which offers information, help and support to people in Gloucestershire experiencing suicidal thoughts has been relaunched in line with World Suicide Prevention Day.

The Stay Alive App is a free suicide prevention pocket resource, packed full of useful information to help users stay safe.

Created by the charity Grassroots Suicide Prevention and licensed to 2gether NHS Foundation Trust, the app was first launched in Gloucestershire and Herefordshire in June last year.

It has now been updated to include new resources and the latest information as part of World Suicide Prevention Day which was on Sunday.

“We believe Stay Alive offers an excellent source of advice and information for people who may have thoughts of suicide and those who support and care for them,” said Sally Ashton, clinical continuous improvement lead for the 2gether NHS Trust.

“The content is completely free and is available online and offline, so is always there for the user, whenever they are feeling vulnerable.”

Held each year on September 10, this annual event is a collaboration of the International Association for Suicide Prevention, the World Health Organisation and the World Federation for Mental Health.

Designed to raise awareness and provide worldwide commitment and action to prevent suicide, this year's theme is about connecting with others and letting people know that #ITSOKAYTOTALK.

More than 800,000 people take their lives each year across the world; more than 6,000 of those in the UK alone - that’s an average of 18 deaths by suicide a day in this country.

2gether NHS Foundation Trust is encouraging people to talk more openly about how they are feeling and ask for help and support when they are struggling – especially if someone is contemplating self-harm or suicide.

More help and information is available from the following sources:

Let’s Talk: Let’s Talk service runs a number of free courses which can help with different aspects of your mental health. To find out more and to self-refer, call 0800 073 2200 or visit www.talk2gether.nhs.uk

Visit your GP: Your GP can refer you to mental health services and help you find the support you need.

Samaritans: Call their 24-hour helpline on 116 123.

HOPELineUK: Offering non-judgmental support, practical advice and information to children, teenagers and young people up to the age of 35. Call 0800 068 41 41.

Gloucestershire Self Harm Helpline: A safe, supportive, non-judgmental and informative service for people who self-harm, their friends, families and carers. Call 0808 816 0606.