Every year at this time we have a volley of anti-drink driving adverts fired at us. Suicide also rises at this time of year.

Those who are without their families are particularly vulnerable. I say to you do not commit suicide this Christmas, things will get better for you even if you cannot yet see the light at the end of the tunnel.

One of my best friends was within a hair's breadth of killing himself and only a call to the Samaritans saved his life. That was more than three decades ago and in the interim he has had a great life and is now a happy and fulfilled man.

If you are vulnerable and going to be spending Christmas alone, consider calling a support group such as the men's helpline or check in to a backpacker's hostel or somewhere else there will be people around you. Plan this in advance. Talk to someone about how you are feeling.

I would very much appreciate replies on this thread giving contacts for agencies in various countries, phone numbers etc.

A happy Christmas to all,

Mike