Every year on 10 September, the world comes together to mark World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD). First launched in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), this day is a call to action: to raise awareness, fight stigma, and remind us all that suicide is preventable.
Why It Matters
Suicide claims the lives of more than 720,000 people globally every year — that’s one life lost every 40 seconds. Behind every number is a person, a family, and a community deeply affected.
This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” encourages us to move away from silence and shame, towards openness, compassion, and support.
The Goals of WSPD
- Raise awareness about suicide as a public health issue.
- Break the stigma surrounding mental health struggles.
- Encourage community support and action.
- Influence policy to create stronger prevention systems.
- Empower people to seek and give help.
The Numbers You Should Know
- Suicide is the third leading cause of death for 15–29-year-olds worldwide.
- Men die by suicide at twice the rate of women.
- In the UK, there were 7,055 suicides in 2023 – averaging 19 deaths every single day.
- In the US, over 49,000 people died by suicide in 2023, with millions more experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Prevention is Possible
Research shows that suicide rates can and do decline with the right interventions: crisis helplines, accessible mental health care, responsible media reporting, and community awareness campaigns all save lives.
This World Suicide Prevention Day, let’s remember: talking saves lives. Whether it’s checking in on a friend, sharing a resource, or breaking the silence around mental health, your voice matters.
📞 If you or someone you know is struggling:
- UK: Call Samaritans at 116 123 (free, 24/7)
- US: Dial 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- Elsewhere: Find international hotlines at IASP Crisis Centres
💛 Together, we can change the story.
Postal Address
