Changing the narrative on suicide

Suicide poses a significant public health challenge, with over 700,000 deaths globally each year. The profound social, emotional, and economic repercussions of suicide affect individuals and communities worldwide. Globally, 10 September 2024 is observed as Suicide Prevention Day.

For the period 2024-2026, World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) has adopted the theme "Changing the narrative on suicide" with the call to action "Start the conversation."

This theme focusses on transforming perceptions of suicide by shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, empathy, and support. The aim is to encourage individuals, communities, organisations, and governments to engage in open and honest discussions about suicide and suicidal behavior. By starting these crucial conversations, barriers can be broken down, awareness can be raised, and supportive cultures can be created.

Changing the narrative involves fostering empathy and understanding. Recognising that suicidal thoughts and feelings signify profound distress and ensuring that discussions about these thoughts do not exacerbate the issue is essential. Providing a listening ear without judgement and guiding individuals towards appropriate help are key steps.

Individual actions

1. Check-In with loved ones: Reaching out to community members, family, friends, or colleagues and enquiring about their well-being can significantly impact those struggling. Offering empathy and support and encouraging them to seek professional help can make a difference.

2. Stay informed: Engaging in training opportunities related to suicide prevention can enhance one's ability to support those experiencing suicidal thoughts.

3. Share personal stories: Individuals who have experienced suicide attempts or loss can offer unique perspectives. Sharing these stories in a supportive environment can inspire others to seek help and understand they are not alone.

4. Advocate for mental health: Promoting mental health awareness through social media, local events, or conversations helps spread the message and reduce stigma.

Community initiatives

1. Organise events: Hosting awareness events such as seminars, workshops, or community walks can educate people about mental health and support those in need. Memorial events can provide spaces for shared grief and support.

2. Provide resources: Developing and distributing informational materials on mental health services, hotlines, and crisis centres can enhance accessibility to support.

3. Create safe spaces: Facilitating support groups and forums for open discussions about mental health issues can help individuals in distress find a non-judgemental environment and access necessary support.

Organisational efforts

1. Training and education: Providing access to workshops or training sessions for employees to recognise signs of suicidal thoughts and mental health issues can be beneficial.

2. Promote supportive workplaces: Implementing policies that support mental health, such as flexible working arrangements and mental health days, can foster a positive work environment. Encouraging open discussions about mental health helps reduce stigma.

3. Corporate social responsibility: Supporting mental health organisations through funding and employee volunteer initiatives can contribute to awareness and prevention efforts.

Government actions

1. Policy development: Developing and strengthening policies that address suicide prevention with evidence-based interventions is essential.

2. Funding and resources: Allocating funds for mental health services, research, and prevention programs ensures comprehensive support for suicide prevention efforts.

3. Public awareness campaigns: Launching national and local campaigns to educate the public about suicide prevention and mental health issues helps reduce stigma and promotes help-seeking behaviours.

By addressing these areas and collaborating across sectors, a supportive and compassionate society can be fostered where suicide is preventable and everyone feels valued and understood.