World Suicide Prevention Day
The World Health Organization estimates that over 800,000 people die by suicide each year – that’s one person every 40 seconds. Up to 25 times as many again make a suicide attempt. The tragic ripple effect means that there are many, many more people who have been bereaved by suicide or have been close to someone who has tried to take his or her own life. And this is happening in spite of the fact that suicide is preventable. 'Connect, communicate, care' is the theme of the 2016 World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10th. These three words are at the heart of suicide prevention.
On September 10th, join with others around the world who are working towards the common goal of preventing suicide. Check in on someone you may be concerned about, and start a caring conversation with them, asking them how they’re going. Investigate ways of connecting with others who are trying to prevent suicide in your community, your country, or internationally.
For this year's World Suicide Prevention (WSPD), the International Association for Suicide Prevention has launched a universal suicide prevention awareness ribbon. The ribbon colors - yellow and orange - were chosen to represent both suicide prevention awareness and bereavement. The two-toned ribbon is also indicative of a candle flame.
Visit the Official World Suicide Prevention Day Facebook Event Page and join people from all over the world who are supporting World Suicide Prevention Day, survivors of suicide and the many volunteers and practitioners worldwide who work to alleviate suffering.
21 August 2016
