Understanding World Suicide Prevention Day

Dr. Carly Snyder, a specialist in reproductive and perinatal psychiatry, integrates conventional psychiatric methods with holistic, integrative medicine approaches.

Each year on September 10th, World Suicide Prevention Day brings global attention to the urgent need for suicide prevention efforts.

Suicide remains a critical public health issue worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 703,000 individuals lose their lives to suicide annually—an alarming rate of one death every 40 seconds. In the United States, suicide ranks among the leading causes of death.

By sharing personal mental health experiences, raising public awareness, and engaging in community-based actions, we can collectively work to prevent suicide. World Suicide Prevention Day serves as a platform offering educational events, resources, and practical steps to foster this mission.

Origins and Evolution of World Suicide Prevention Day

Established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) with support from the WHO, this day was created to emphasize the message that suicide is preventable.

Over time, the day’s themes have evolved to promote global connection and proactive intervention, including slogans like “Suicide Prevention: One World Connected” and “Take a Minute, Change a Life.” The 2022 theme, "Creating Hope Through Action," underscores the power of even small acts to support those struggling.

IASP highlights, “By fostering hope through meaningful actions, we send a message to individuals facing suicidal thoughts that they are not alone and that help is available. Encouraging empathy, outreach, and shared experiences empowers people to take vital steps toward prevention. Together, we can be a beacon of light to those in distress.”

Globally, numerous countries participate in World Suicide Prevention Day through diverse initiatives such as:

• IASP’s documentary “Step Closer,” which emphasizes the importance of collective support in suicide prevention.
• Cycle Around the Globe 2020, a cycling event spanning over 40 countries that raised more than $12,000 for suicide prevention.
• The Light a Candle campaign, inviting survivors and those affected by suicide to honor and remember their loved ones by lighting candles on the eve of the day.

World Suicide Prevention Day also aligns with Suicide Prevention Awareness Month (organized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness), National Suicide Prevention Week (sponsored by the American Association of Suicidology), and National Recovery Month (hosted by NAADAC). These observances throughout September in the U.S. aim to dismantle stigma around mental health, addiction, and suicide.

How You Can Contribute to Suicide Prevention

Recognizing warning signs and understanding risk factors of suicide are crucial steps. Protecting your own mental wellbeing, encouraging help-seeking behaviors, and empowering your community to support one another during crises are essential, explains Stephanie Rogers, Senior Vice President of Communications & Marketing at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Equipping yourself with knowledge and responding promptly to signs of depression, suicidal ideation, or self-harm can save lives.

To observe World Suicide Prevention Day, consider these actions:

• Save crisis hotline numbers on your phone and encourage others to do the same.
• Reach out compassionately to friends, family, or community members who may be struggling.
• Advocate for mental health policies that guarantee access to care, training, and funding for local support systems.
• Engage with community organizations dedicated to mental health and suicide prevention.

Participating in events, organizing awareness activities, donating, or volunteering are impactful ways to support ongoing prevention efforts at local, national, and international levels.

Services addressing substance misuse, behavioral health, mental healthcare, homelessness, and social support all play vital roles in reducing suicide risk.

The New 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Initiating Open Conversations

Identifying when someone may be experiencing suicidal thoughts can be challenging, notes Doreen Marshall, PhD, Vice President of Mission Engagement at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Look for behavioral changes, expressions of hopelessness, mood fluctuations, or difficulties with daily tasks that may signal worsening mental health. Don’t hesitate to ask directly about suicidal thoughts, especially if the person is facing significant stressors.

While mental health professionals are trained to provide support, Dr. Marshall emphasizes that everyone has a role in suicide prevention. Honest, empathetic conversations with loved ones are a crucial first step.

Helpful tips for these discussions include:

• Listen attentively without interrupting.
• Allow individuals to share at their own pace.
• Avoid judgment and refrain from offering unsolicited advice; simply be present.
• Recognize that mental health experiences vary and respect those differences.
• Follow up after the conversation and offer to connect them with professional help if needed.

For further guidance, download the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s #RealConvo conversation starters.

Seeking and Offering Support

If you notice concerning signs or learn that someone is having suicidal thoughts, it’s vital to encourage professional support, says Dr. Marshall.

Mental health challenges affect everyone differently, but having a dependable support system—whether family, friends, therapists, or community organizations—is essential during difficult times.

This World Suicide Prevention Day, prioritize opening communication channels. Reach out to those struggling, and if you yourself are facing challenges, confide in trusted individuals or mental health professionals. Initiating dialogue is a powerful step toward healing.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 to connect with trained counselors. In emergencies, call 911 immediately.

Explore additional mental health resources in our National Helpline Database.

A Message from Verywell

The conversation surrounding mental health in the U.S. is shifting positively. Health plans increasingly include behavioral health services, employers offer enhanced mental health benefits, and public figures openly discuss their experiences. Access to mental health care, including free apps and online therapy, is expanding and becoming more affordable. Nevertheless, stigma persists, making ongoing advocacy essential.

Millions of Americans are affected by mental health struggles, either personally or through loved ones. Prioritizing mental wellness through policy advocacy, community engagement, resource sharing, and seeking care when needed fosters a supportive environment that encourages others to do the same.

Learn more about related topics:

• Comprehensive Mental Health Conditions
• Understanding Depression
• Suicide Awareness and Prevention

Our content is supported by authoritative sources, including peer-reviewed research, ensuring reliability and accuracy. For more on our editorial standards, see our process.

1. International Association for Suicide Prevention. WSPD2021 - IASP.

2. World Health Organization. Suicide worldwide in 2019: global health estimates.

3. International Association for Suicide Prevention. About - IASP WSPD History Ribbon Launch Themes.

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