Wednesday 10 September is World Suicide Prevention Day, organised by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP). The theme for this year is Connectedness.
It is estimated that over 800,000 deaths occurred worldwide in 2012 through suicide. In richer countries three times as many men take their own lives than women. It is also estimated that for each person who takes their own life there are 20 others who have attempted suicide. The tragic loss of life is clear, but what about those who are left? How do they cope with all the feelings, the questions, and the future?
The World Health Organisation have published an in-depth report “Preventing Suicide – A Global Imperative”. See the link on the IASP website – www.iasp.info/wspd/. This site also contains ideas of how you can raise awareness of this issue.
Let’s work to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and also surrounding suicide itself. Communities can play a part in reaching out to those who have become disconnected, so let’s be community-minded and look out for each other.
Remember – it’s good to talk.