In this episode of "Man Up / Man Down," hosts David and Volker welcome Rose Rowkins, a suicide prevention trainer, to discuss the critical importance of suicide awareness during Suicide Awareness Week.

Rose, who has over 20 years of experience in mental health and suicide prevention, emphasises that conversations about suicide, while often perceived as difficult, can be lifesaving when approached with courage and compassion.

She explains that by recognising warning signs—such as changes in behaviour, mood swings, and expressions of hopelessness—individuals can intervene before a crisis escalates.

Rose introduces her "START" method; a toolkit designed to help people navigate these conversations.

It stands for:

· Spot the signs

· Trust your gut

· Ask directly about suicide

· Really listen

· Tell others together, reinforcing the importance of collaborative support.

Rose stresses the need for direct, compassionate questions when someone is at risk, highlighting that while asking about suicide can be tough, it’s essential for opening a dialogue that might save a life.

The conversation also touches on the impact of testosterone levels on men’s mental health, with Rose noting the connection between low testosterone and increased suicide risk. This underscores the importance of addressing physical and mental health together.

The episode reflects on the cultural challenges, particularly among men, in discussing emotions and vulnerabilities. Rose and the hosts agree that while traditional male conversations often avoid emotional depth, breaking this mould is crucial. They advocate for fostering meaningful connections and community support, which are vital for mental well-being.

Throughout the discussion, Rose provides actionable insights, encouraging listeners to be proactive in supporting friends or loved ones who may be struggling. The episode concludes with a reminder of the importance of being present, compassionate, and unafraid to ask the tough questions, emphasising that everyone has a role in preventing suicide.

Rose Rowkins is on a mission to help people overcome their fears and find the words to talk about suicide - because suicide is everyone’s business.

For 20+ years, she has worked passionately to build hope through meaningful connections, one conversation at a time, as a Samaritan, as a counsellor with young people and survivors of domestic abuse, as a youth worker, and since 2015 as a suicide prevention trainer. Rose has personally equipped 1000s of people around the world with the tools and confidence to have a compassionate, courageous conversation that can save a life.

She also co-created the 90-minute session Talking about Suicide: 10 Tools (TAS10), which is now on the curriculum at a number of UK Medical Schools.

Find her at www.starttheconversation.uk or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/roserowkins/

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