THIS time of year is a happy one for many of us.

But for some, Christmas brings into sharp focus anxieties and worries, and it is precisely this time of year that we should take extra care to look out for each other.

Making friends and family aware that we are here to talk - or, of the support services available, has never been more important.

Although the idea that suicides rise at Christmas is a myth, according to official figures, studies do suggest numbers increase in January and as we look ahead to a new year it is easy to see why this might be a troubling time for some.

We all need to do our bit to raise awareness and encourage people to talk and that is why we welcome the beermat initiative from Every Life Matters.

We must take advantage of all opportunities to reach out to people and with pubs and bars being so busy over the festive period it seems only logical to use this method of communication.

As Michael Cassells from Suicide Safer Barrow states: “We all have a part to play in reducing suicides.”

And talking about it is incredibly important.

By removing the taboo around mental health, and having meaningful discussions about the issue, those in need will know there is someone there they can talk to.