Time Space Compassion - supporting people experiencing suicidal crisis: introductory guide

1. Why Time Space Compassion?

We all know that suicide has major impacts across our communities. It is estimated that up to 1 person in 20 is thinking about suicide at any one time^[i]. In 2021, 753 lives^[ii] were lost to suicide. Over the period 2016 - 2021, the average number of people who died each year by suicide was 766. We also know that for every suicide death 135 people are affected in some way^[iii]. In the research that shaped Time Space Compassion, people described their experience of responding to suicidal crisis as a human reaction, not a service model. They highlighted how placing the principles of Time Space Compassion at the heart of what we do, can improve outcomes for those in crisis^[iv].

"This is about valuing and supporting the people and places that already offer Time Space Compassion, working to address gaps and inconsistency in people’s experiences, and constantly improving practice."

(person with lived experience)

Table 1: What we know and how it compares to the evidence

We know that...

Clear, factual information and routes to and through support are critical to help seeking and sustained recovery

And yet the evidence shows...

Missed opportunities to reach out for help or to intervene and offer support

For example, between 2011 and 2019^vi, 77.3% of those who had died by suicide in Scotland had contact with at least one of nine healthcare services in the twelve months prior to their death

We know that...

We need to focus on the barriers to accessing support, which include overcoming fear and experiences of rejection and discrimination, fear of being a burden, and low expectations of the support on offer^vii

And yet the evidence shows...

37% of people in Scotland have witnessed someone experiencing stigma or discrimination because of a mental health problem

Only 26% of young people would tell someone if they were finding it difficult to cope^viii

We know that...

Compassion matters and plays a key role in preventing suicide –it creates hope, supporting healing and recovery^ix

And yet the evidence shows...

More action is needed to fully realise the part that timely, compassionate responses play in preventing suicide and improving people’s lives^[x]