None of us can imagine the silent pain endured by Gary Speed that drove him to take his own life.

It seems unimaginable that a man with a successful career, a loving wife, two young children, loyal and supportive friends and thousands of fans could feel that life was not worth living.

It is timely that the F A has sent a Guide to Tackling Depression to 50,000 footballers and perhaps every one of us should receive one. But the real tragedy is that he – and many others – feels that there is nowhere to turn and no one who will understand their emotional pain.

With the festive season near, professionals in many areas will be anticipating the increase in suicide, relationship breakdown, children taken into care and the results of the despair and loneliness felt by so many.

We, at Southampton Counselling, urge everyone to take good care of themselves and to seek whatever support and care they need, whether it be from friends, family or professional services.

No one needs to suffer alone and if you – or anyone you know – is dreading the future then we urge you to make one life-saving phone call to whomever you think can best help.

ELIZABETH EVERETT, Southampton Counselling.