World Suicide Prevention Day 2024: History, significance, date and theme

World Suicide Prevention Day: It is important to cater to one's mental health. (Representational)

World Suicide Prevention Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the devastating impact of suicide and the steps we can take to prevent it, is observed on September 10 annually.

This year marks the beginning of a new triennial theme, "Changing the Narrative on Suicide," with the call to action: "Start the Conversation."

This initiative, spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Association for Suicide Prevention, aims to transform how we perceive suicide, breaking the silence and stigma surrounding it.

Significance
Suicide is a significant public health issue, claiming more than 7,00,000 lives each year globally. The ripple effects of each suicide are profound, with far-reaching social, emotional, and economic consequences that touch families, communities, and societies at large. Despite the scale of the problem, suicide remains shrouded in silence and stigma, often preventing individuals from seeking the help they need.

History

Established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in collaboration with WHO, World Suicide Prevention Day serves as a vital platform to focus global attention on suicide prevention. It aims to reduce stigma, raise awareness, and promote the message that suicides are preventable. This day is a reminder that by working together, we can save lives and create a world where everyone feels valued and supported.

Theme

The 2024-2026 theme, "Changing the Narrative on Suicide," emphasises the urgent need to shift our collective understanding of suicide. This involves moving away from a culture of silence and misunderstanding to one of openness, empathy, and support. By starting conversations about suicide and mental health, we can challenge the stigma that surrounds these topics and encourage more people to seek help.

WHO’s call to action, "Start the Conversation," highlights the power of dialogue in suicide prevention. Every conversation, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in building a supportive and understanding society. These conversations can help break down barriers, raise awareness, and create environments where individuals feel safe to discuss their struggles.

Changing the narrative on suicide also requires action at the policy level. Advocates are calling on governments to prioritise mental health and suicide prevention in their policymaking. This includes increasing access to mental health care, implementing supportive policies, and ensuring that those in need receive the necessary care and resources.

Suicide prevention helplines.