A CAMPAIGN was being launched today to help cut the number of suicides.

Figures show two people in Scotland die each day by taking their own lives – four times more than the number killed on the roads.

However, the charity Scottish Association for Mental Health says the subject is still seldom discussed, particularly among men, who are three times more likely than women to take their own lives.

The Two Too Many campaign aims to raise awareness, challenge stigma and promote SAMH's National Programme for Suicide Prevention.

The charity recently launched a Community Support Network in Glasgow which supports people who have a friend or family member who is experiencing suicidal thoughts.

It provides support and information on how to get help for the person and on looking after themselves.

It is currently only available in Glasgow but will be rolled out to other areas next year.

SAMH will be showing powerful TV advertisements as part of the campaign demonstrating the impact of suicide on two families.

Fraser Thomson, who lost his sister to suicide in 2009, said: "From going through the experience of losing her, I've learned that we need to encourage people to talk about their emotions and their mental health, and not to be scared to ask friends and family if they are OK when they seem low".

SAMH chief executive Billy Watson said: "We see the devastation caused by suicide on a daily basis. We believe suicide can be preven-ted, and hope the public will support the Two Too Many campaign."

The charity is asking people to give £3 by texting TALK to 70040.

caroline.wilson@ heraldandtimes.co.uk