The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) partners with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) to host World Suicide Prevention Day, which has been observed annually on September 10 with various activities around the world since 2003. In 2011, an estimated 40 countries held awareness events to raise awareness of suicide prevention.

The three-year theme for World Suicide Prevention Day from 2021 to 2023 will be "Creating hope through action." It serves as a reminder that there are alternatives to suicide, in an effort to instill hope and brightness in all of us.

We may show by our actions that there is hope and that we care about and want to support people who are thinking about taking their own lives. It also implies that, no matter how big or tiny, our efforts could inspire hope in others who are struggling. Last but not least, it emphasizes how critical it is for nations to make public health suicide prevention a top priority, particularly in circumstances where access to mental health treatment and the availability of evidence-based interventions are already constrained. Over the course of three years, this topic can be developed, and the message can be communicated, leading to a society with fewer suicides.

Every suicide fatality is a public health problem with a major impact on the local populace. By spreading awareness, eradicating the stigma around it, and encouraging reasoned action, we can reduce the number of suicides worldwide.

On this World Suicide Prevention Day, talk to one other. Don't hesitate to help someone you know who needs it. If you are struggling, talk about it with a close friend or mental health professional. To receive assistance, the conversation must be opened.

As members of society, as children, as parents, as friends, as coworkers, or as people with personal experience, we can all help those who are experiencing a suicidal crisis or who have lost a loved one to suicide. We can all spread knowledge about the problem, help those in need, and share our personal experiences. We may all spread light and hope via our actions.

PDO I Kimberly Tanador, RND

References:

What is World Suicide Prevention Day

https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-suicide-prevention-day-5197556

World Suicide Prevention Day

https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-suicide-prevention-day/2022