Internet bullies who hound Fifers are being targeted during Suicide Prevention Week.
Last month the rising problem hit the headlines as police were called in to investigate claims that a 17-year-old west Fife teenager had killed himself because he was being blackmailed on the internet.
It is believed he had become involved in a scam where victims are befriended and tricked into making explicit webcam recordings.
Now Fife’s adult protection committee is putting its support behind the Choose Life campaign and is using the annual event to raise awareness and understanding of the serious issue.
Highlighting the fact that two people end their own lives in Scotland every day, independent chairman John Myles said: “Criminals and anonymous bullies are finding new ways to intimidate or threaten people by email, websites, social networks and text messages.
“People can find themselves in a vulnerable situation, particularly if they share compromising content online.”
And he told anyone who may have shared something on the internet that they wish they hadn’t, or who has been a victim of online bullying, that there is a wide range of help and advice available.
Mr Myles said that suicide and self-harm are issues which are still largely hidden.
“Adult Protection statistics show that self-harm is the largest category of reported harm,” he went on.
“Suicide Prevention Week gives us the opportunity to raise public awareness of this serious and sensitive issue in a positive way.
“In line with the advice being given by the Choose Life campaign, if you or someone you know is feeling suicidal the best thing you can do is talk to someone you trust or call a helpline.”
Information is available at the council website on the keeping safe pages, or on the community safety partnership SafetyNet pages at fifedirect.org.uk.
Anyone with concerns about someone they fear is at risk of harm or is being neglected can call the adult protection phone line on 01383 602200.
Help is also available from Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87, or the Samaritans can be contacted by calling 08457 90 90 90.