What is World Suicide Prevention Day?
World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is held on the 10th of September every year. It is an awareness raising event organised by International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
2026 marks the third and final year of the triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day (2024–2026), Changing the Narrative on Suicide, with the call to action: Start the Conversation.
Why is WSPD so important?
More than 720,000 people die by suicide worldwide each year.
Suicide can affect every one of us. Each and every suicide is devastating and has a profound impact on those around them. However, by raising awareness, reducing the stigma around suicide and encouraging well informed action, we can reduce instances of suicide around the world.
World Suicide Prevention Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of suicide and to promote action through proven means that will reduce the number of suicides and suicide attempts globally.
Changing the Narrative on Suicide
Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue. It’s about shifting from a culture of silence and lack of understanding to one of openness, empathy, and support. Changing the narrative on suicide aims to inspire individuals, communities, organizations, and governments to engage in open and honest discussions about suicide and suicidal behaviour. By initiating these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create better cultures of understanding and support.
Changing the narrative requires systemic change. It means advocating for multisectoral policies that prioritize mental health, increase access to care, and provide support for those in need. It means investing in research to better understand the complexities of suicide and develop evidence-based interventions.
Changing the narrative means fostering empathy and compassion for those who are struggling. It means understanding that suicidal thoughts and feelings are a sign of immense pain and- distress but talking about suicidal thoughts does not increase their presence or occurrence. It means listening without judgment, offering support, and guiding individuals towards help.
Click here to read more about the theme for WSPD 2024-2026 on the IASP website.
Why is WSPD so important?
An estimated 700,000 people die by suicide worldwide each year.
Suicide can affect every one of us. Each and every suicide is devastating and has a profound impact on those around them. However, by raising awareness, reducing the stigma around suicide and encouraging well informed action, we can reduce instances of suicide around the world.
World Suicide Prevention Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of suicide and to promote action through proven means that will reduce the number of suicides and suicide attempts globally.
Changing the Narrative on Suicide
Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue. It’s about shifting from a culture of silence and lack of understanding to one of openness, empathy, and support. Changing the narrative on suicide aims to inspire individuals, communities, organizations, and governments to engage in open and honest discussions about suicide and suicidal behaviour. By initiating these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create better cultures of understanding and support.
Changing the narrative requires systemic change. It means advocating for multisectoral policies that prioritize mental health, increase access to care, and provide support for those in need. It means investing in research to better understand the complexities of suicide and develop evidence-based interventions.
Changing the narrative means fostering empathy and compassion for those who are struggling. It means understanding that suicidal thoughts and feelings are a sign of immense pain and- distress but talking about suicidal thoughts does not increase their presence or occurrence. It means listening without judgment, offering support, and guiding individuals towards help.
Click here to read more about the theme for WSPD 2024-2026 on the IASP website.
How do we change the narrative on suicide?
Check in with loved ones
Taking time to reach out to someone in your community, a family member, friend, colleague or even a stranger – could change the course of another’s life. Look out for those who you think might be struggling and don’t be afraid to ask someone if they are suicidal; the offer of support, showing empathy and validating their feelings is more likely to reduce distress rather than exacerbate it. Encourage them to seek help and further support. Read more guidance on talking through suicidal thoughts and feelings in our resource here.
Keep informed
Consider accessing training opportunities in suicide prevention and awareness to identify and support those with suicidal thoughts and behaviour. Opportunities maybe available locally through workshops, online or in your workplace.
Share your story
Individuals who have survived a suicide attempt or experienced the loss of a loved one to suicide often have valuable insights and can help us understand how the words and actions of others can be important. Sharing your story in a safe and supported way can be powerful to both you and to those around you. Your story can inspire others to seek help and to know they are not alone. For more resources click here.
Advocate for mental health awareness
Promote mental health awareness within your community, use social media, local events or even casual conversations to help spread the message.
Click here to find out more about how you can change the narrative on suicide on World Suicide Prevention Day and in your daily life, on the IASP website which has tips for; individuals, communities, organisations and Governments.
Suicide Prevention
Suicide prevention is something that can be worked towards every day. There are many things you can do to learn more about suicide prevention and what you can do if you know someone struggling. For information, from Mind, about supporting someone who feels suicidal, click here.
Zero Suicide Alliance hold short online Suicide Awareness Training which aims to give you the skills and confidence to help someone who may be considering suicide. Click here for more information.
Click here to access resources from IASP to help promote World Suicide Prevention Day online and in your community.
Washington Mind offer fully funded spaces on their A LIFE Worth Living Suicide Prevention training for those who live, work and volunteer across Sunderland and South Tyneside. Click here to find out more and book a space.
Accessing Support
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts and feelings, there is help available.
