08/03/2024
The gay Conservative MP for Carshalton and Wallington, Elliot Colburn, has told the House of Commons about his experience as a survivor of emotional distress and his attempt at suicide in 2021. Mr Colburn said " "February marks emotional health, boost your self-esteem and children's mental health month. In recent years something like 6,500 people die in the UK each year due to suicide. Luckily, my attempt failed, I was found by family members quickly, I received amazing care at St Helier and Springfield Hospitals, didn't do any permanent damage and was well looked after by the NHS in the months that followed." Mr Colburn's emotional speech was praised by MPs on all sides of the House. Mr Colburn has served on the Parliamentary Group on HIV and also the Women and Equalities Committee.
If you are affected by this theme of this article, then do not suffer in silence - reach out for help. The Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on 116 123 in both the UK and the Republic of Ireland.
