TODAY is World Suicide Prevention Day, an annual opportunity to remind each other that talking about difficult feelings, including suicidal thoughts, doesn’t have to be scary and doesn’t have to be faced alone.

Suicide is a major public health challenge, with more than 700 000 deaths each year globally. Each suicide has far-reaching social, emotional, and economic consequences, and deeply affects individuals and communities worldwide.

The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day for 2024-2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” with the call to action “Start the Conversation”. The aim is to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides. Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue and shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.

Over the next three years this call to action encourages everyone to start the conversation on suicide and suicide prevention. Every conversation, no matter how small, contributes to a supportive and understanding society. By initiating these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create better cultures of support.

The theme also emphasizes the need to prioritize suicide prevention and mental health in policy making, calling for government action. You might want to consider that the next time you speak or write to your local MP. Changing the narrative requires advocating for policies that prioritize mental health, increase access to care, and provide support for those in need.

There are many organisations locally and nationally offering support including The Samaritans who are there 24/7.

On World Suicide Prevention Day 2024 The Samaritan offer some useful advice about what people can do to help “change the narrative”:

Watch out for changes in behaviour that could mean someone’s having suicidal thoughts
Speak up to let someone know that there is support available
Play your part by reaching out to anyone you’re concerned about

Ditch the stigma – suicidal thoughts are far more common than most people know – so let’s talk about it!
https://www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/world-suicide-prevention-day/

If you’re having suicidal thoughts, it’s important to speak to someone as soon as possible.

Support options include:
NHS 111 – Call 111 and select option 2 to speak to a mental health professional.
The Samaritans – Call 116 123 FREE any time, day or night – they won’t judge or tell you what to do.
Mind in West Essex – Call 01371 876 641 between Monday and Friday 9 – 5pm.

National Suicide Prevention Helpline – Call 0800 689 5652 – lines are open every day from 6pm until midnight.