‘Talking can help people through their problems’

The Director of Coleraine Samaritans, says talking can really help people to see a way through their problems.

Kate Miller’s comments follow a Samaritans survey that showed that more than a third (41%) of people in Northern Ireland say they don’t like to burden others with their problems.

The survey, published to promote its Talk To Us campaign, also reveals that nearly 1 in 5 (19%) people sometimes feel overwhelmed by their troubles, and 1 in 6 (16%) also feel they don’t have anyone to share them with.*

Kate Miller said: ““There’s nothing weak about talking about what’s getting to you.

“Recognising your need to talk is a strength. Everyone’s different and what one person might cope with can easily overwhelm another.

“Our volunteers can support you, whatever you’re going through - work stress, money troubles, family difficulties, sexuality issues, or a big life event.

“Samaritans’ volunteers won’t judge you and we’re here round the clock every day of the year to listen in confidence about whatever you need to share. You don’t have to be suicidal to call Samaritans, we provide support to anyone who may be struggling to cope.”

The survey showed that other barriers to opening up about what’s bothering us include: Feeling embarrassed (1 in 7 or 13%) ; Feeling weak (1 in 7 or 13%) ; Feeling judged (1 in 7 or 13%)

For those of us who do feel able to share, the person we are most likely to go to is a partner (nearly 1 in 5 of us, 19%), then a friend (1 in 7 of us, 13%). Just under 1 in 5 of us (19%) will sadly just bottle it up, and 1 in 7 of us (13%) will avoid people and spend time alone.

Samaritans can be contacted on call 08457 90 90 90.