Suicide Awareness

Why the Butterfly Matters to RiseUpGirl

This week is Suicide Awareness Week. Suicide awareness day being 10th September

For RiseUpGirl, this is not simply a week marked on the calendar. It is something that is very close to our hearts.

We are a UK-based support network for women, young women and women with children. Every day, we see the pressures, challenges and circumstances that can leave someone feeling overwhelmed, isolated or as though there is no way forward.

And within our own RiseUpGirl community, we have people who understand this from personal experience.

People who have been in that dark place.

People who have struggled with thoughts of suicide.

People who have supported loved ones through it.

And people who are still here today.

That is one of the reasons the butterfly is at the heart of RiseUpGirl.

The butterfly represents change. It represents growth, resilience and the possibility of becoming something different from where you started.

But perhaps most importantly, it reminds us that a difficult chapter is not necessarily the end of the story.

Sometimes, when someone is struggling deeply, it can be almost impossible for them to imagine a future beyond the pain they are experiencing. They may not be able to see hope, even when others can see it for them.

That is where connection matters.

A conversation matters.Someone asking, “Are you okay?” matters.

Someone sitting beside you without judgement matters.Being listened to matters.

And sometimes, simply knowing that somebody cares enough to stay can make a difference.

We need to talk about suicide

Suicide can be an incredibly difficult subject to talk about. But silence can leave people feeling even more alone.

Talking openly and compassionately about suicide does not mean putting the idea into someone’s head. It can, instead, create an opportunity for someone to say what they have been carrying.

We don’t always need the perfect words.

We don’t need to have all the answers.

Sometimes we just need to be willing to listen.

If someone tells you they are struggling, take them seriously. You don’t have to fix everything. You can simply be there, listen without judgement and help them find the right support.

And if you are struggling, please know this:

You do not have to face it alone. You are not a burden. You deserve support.

You deserve to be heard.

And whatever you are going through right now, this moment does not have to define your whole story.

Why RiseUpGirl exists

RiseUpGirl was created because we believe women and girls deserve somewhere they can turn to.

A place where they can feel supported rather than judged.

A place where their experiences are heard.

A place where they can find connection, encouragement and practical support when life feels difficult. Our butterfly is a reminder of why we do what we do.

Because we know that people can go through incredibly painful experiences and still find their way towards something different.

We know that recovery isn’t always straightforward.

We know there can be setbacks, difficult days and moments when hope feels very far away.

But we also know the incredible strength that can come from being supported, understood and surrounded by people who care.

If you are struggling, please reach out.

And if you know someone who may be struggling, don’t be afraid to check in.

You don’t need to know exactly what to say.

Just let them know they don’t have to carry it alone.

Sometimes a small connection can be the beginning of hope.

And sometimes, like the butterfly, we need time, support and space before we can find our wings.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E. In the UK, you can also call Samaritans free, 24 hours a day, on 116 123.