RESEARCH by the charity Samaritans reveals that while most of us think we are good listeners, we keep quiet about our own problems.

More than half (57 per cent) of people in the South West believe we are good listeners, but only a quarter feel they can talk when they have something on their mind.

The figures come as Samaritans launches its "We Listen" campaign.

Supported by Network Rail and the wider rail industry, the message is that while it is easy to hide your feelings, when someone really listens - which is what Samaritans volunteers do - you are more likely to open up and start working through your problems.

Posters in railway stations across the South West contain hidden messages where people claiming to be fine reveal that the are not OK at all.

The message from Samaritans is: "We don’t just hear you, we listen’, reassuring callers that dedicated listeners are interested in the real problems they are grappling with.

Samaritans chief executive Ruth Sutherland said: "Life’s pressures can build, without you even realising.

"It’s all too easy to turn away, ignore how you’re feeling, and put on a brave face - But you don’t have to do that with Samaritans.

"Samaritans volunteers make time for you and really listen to you, because simply being listened to can help you put into words what is really going on in your life and help you find a way through.

"It might be the pressures of family, relationships, work, health, finances – or anything else. Life can be tough, and it’s a strength not a weakness to reach out for support."

Talk to Samaritans for free from any phone on 116 123.

For more information visit the website: www.samaritans.org .