Every 40 seconds, someone takes their own life.
10 September is World Suicide Prevention Day, a global observance to raise awareness about suicidality, reduce stigma, and encourage help-seeking to prevent suicide amongst all people - young, old, and the in-between.
Every suicide is a tragedy, and while it may be difficult to understand completely why anyone might come to this decision, it typically involves unbearable emotional, physical, or mental anguish that pushes the victim to extreme choices.
According to the WHO, more than 700,000 people die due to suicide every year, not counting the number of attempted suicides, most of whom are from low- to middle-income countries.
Poor mental health, such as depression and substance abuse disorders, are major risk factors for suicide. However, many suicides happen in moments of crisis when there is a breakdown in the ability to deal with stressors. In addition, experiencing conflict, disaster, violence, abuse, or loss and a sense of isolation are strongly associated with suicidal behaviours. Suicide rates are high amongst vulnerable groups who experience discrimination, such as refugees and migrants; indigenous peoples; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) persons; and prisoners. By far, the strongest risk factor for suicide is a previous suicide attempt.
Download the Suicide Awareness and Prevention Resources Pack to read more. It might help save a life.