Following the tragic death of Love Island star Mike Thalassitis, The Sun has launched a new campaign alongside suicide prevention charity Papyrus.
The campaign, launched in the paper this morning (18 March), encourages readers to talk about their mental health with loved ones and friends. It is focused on younger readers, who studies suggest are less likely to talk regularly about any issues they might be having.
The campaign was backed by all three major political parties, with Suicide Minister Jackie Doyle-Price also calling on TV companies to do more to help reality stars after they’ve left our screens.
Some 1,600 people under 35 die each year by suicide – a staggering three quarters of whom are men.
Ged Flynn, director of Papyrus, said: “We need to help children and young people know that all human beings struggle. We can’t protect them from pain, but by having open conversations, we can make sure they know they have choices.”
Jackie Doyle-Price MP, Suicide Prevention Minister, added: “Every death by suicide is preventable. Many organisations can play their part and I am really pleased that The Sun is launching this campaign. Suicide happens when people feel they can’t cope anymore. No one should feel like they can’t ask for help.”