World Suicide Prevention Day

World Suicide Prevention Day History

World Suicide Prevention Day is an annual global event that aims to raise awareness about the severity of suicide, and promote actions that can help in its prevention. It is a day to collectively address this critical issue, recognise the signs and risk factors, and encourage support for those grappling with suicidal thoughts or affected by suicide. Mental health organisations, communities, and various stakeholders come together to share information, initiate conversations, and advocate for effective preventative measures.

First observed in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the significance of this day stands relevant for the United Kingdom as well. In the UK, suicide remains one of the leading causes of death, and according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), an increase in the number of suicides was recorded in 2019 compared to the previous year. In response to this, the government's ongoing efforts to prioritise mental health services and the UK's first-ever suicide prevention minister illustrate the commitment to support individuals who face mental health challenges.

To mark World Suicide Prevention Day in the United Kingdom, numerous events and campaigns take place to facilitate dialogue and provide accessible resources for support. Organisations such as the Samaritans, Mind, and Papyrus work towards raising awareness, reducing stigma, and offering guidance on effective interventions. In addition, the UK's National Suicide Prevention Alliance brings together over 70 member organisations to collaborate and strengthen strategies for reducing suicides. The global community observes World Suicide Prevention Day every year on the 10th of September, as a reminder that collaboration and understanding can save lives and support those in need.

World Suicide Prevention Day facts

• The theme World Suicide Prevention Day 2023 willbeswas: Creating Hope Through Action.
• Approximately 800,000 people die due to suicide every year worldwide, according to the World Health Organization.
• Men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women, yet women are more likely to report suicidal thoughts.
• In 2019, the suicide rate among men aged 20–24 reached its highest level since 2000, and the rate among women in the same age group peaked since 2011.
• Network Rail, the British Transport Police, and Samaritans launched the Small Talk Saves Lives campaign to encourage passengers and railway staff to engage in conversations with those exhibiting signs of distress or suicidal thoughts on platforms, potentially interrupting their decision to take their lives.

In the News and Trending in the UK for World Suicide Prevention Day

Top things to do in the UK for World Suicide Prevention Day

• Explore Find a Helpline, a free online tool that connects people to helplines. This tool was established by the non-profit Live for Tomorrow and is available in over 50 countries. It lists over 1,400 services for those seeking help either for themselves or for others.
• Use this day to learn more about mental health and suicide prevention, and help educate others by sharing information and resources.
• Lighting a candle near a window at 8 PM on World Suicide Prevention Day is a global initiative to show support for suicide prevention, to remember a lost loved one, and for the survivors of suicide.