World Suicide Prevention Day is observed every year on 10 September to focus global attention on the reality that suicide can often be prevented when people in distress receive timely support. The day invites governments, health professionals, community leaders, media and the public to talk openly about suicide, reduce stigma around mental illness and encourage people to seek help early.
History
World Suicide Prevention Day was first launched in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). Before that, many mental health and survivor groups were working separately to raise awareness about suicide and self harm. The creation of a single international day helped unite these efforts under a common message of prevention and hope.
Since its launch, World Suicide Prevention Day has been observed every year on 10 September. Each year IASP and WHO select a theme that highlights different aspects of prevention, such as connecting with others, working together across sectors, building hope through action or strengthening community based mental health services. Events include awareness walks, memorial services, educational seminars, media campaigns and training for health workers, teachers and community volunteers.
Why it matters
Suicide is a major public health issue worldwide. More than seven hundred thousand people die by suicide every year and many more attempt suicide or live with serious suicidal thoughts. For every life lost, families, friends and communities are deeply affected by grief, guilt and unanswered questions.
Most suicides are linked to a combination of factors. These can include depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions, alcohol or drug use, chronic pain or illness, experiences of violence or abuse, financial stress, academic or work pressure and social isolation. In many cases people feel trapped, hopeless or like a burden to others and may see suicide as the only way to end their pain.
However, research and lived experience show that suicide is often preventable. Many people who once had strong suicidal thoughts later recover and go on to live meaningful lives when they receive compassionate support and appropriate care. Early recognition of warning signs, listening without judgment, restricting access to highly lethal means and timely access to mental health services can all reduce the risk of suicide.
Stigma remains one of the biggest barriers. In many societies people feel ashamed to talk about mental health problems or suicidal thoughts. They may fear being judged, blamed or labelled as weak or attention seeking. World Suicide Prevention Day encourages open and responsible conversation, challenges harmful myths and reminds us that asking for help is a courageous step.
Key facts
International leadership
- the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP)
- with support from WHO
- has led World Suicide Prevention Day since 2003.
Global burden
- more than seven hundred thousand people die by suicide every year worldwide
- and suicide is one of the leading causes of death among young people in many countries.
Prevention is possible
- most suicides can be prevented through timely support
- evidence based mental health care
- crisis helplines and safe reporting in the media.
Warning signs
- talking about wanting to die
- feeling hopeless or like a burden
- withdrawing from others
- major mood changes and giving away possessions can be warning signs that someone needs urgent support.
In Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, suicide is a sensitive and often under reported issue. Social and religious stigma around suicide and mental illness can make it difficult for people to speak openly about their struggles or to seek professional help. At the same time, awareness about mental health is slowly increasing, especially in urban areas.
Organizations such as Kaan Pete Roi, a volunteer run emotional support helpline, provide confidential listening and support to people in emotional distress over the phone. Government institutions, including the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), public hospitals and some medical college hospitals, offer mental health services and inpatient care. A growing number of private psychiatrists and psychologists also provide counselling and treatment.
On World Suicide Prevention Day, mental health professionals, universities, NGOs and youth groups in Bangladesh organize discussions, public lectures, media programs and social media campaigns. Messages emphasize that depression and suicidal thoughts are medical and psychological issues that deserve care and compassion, not moral judgment. People are encouraged to check in on friends and family, take expressions of hopelessness seriously and guide those in need toward professional help or helplines.
For individuals and families, the core message is that you do not have to face suicidal thoughts or intense emotional pain alone. Talking to someone you trust, contacting a helpline or seeking help from a mental health professional can open the door to support, treatment and hope.
Frequently asked questions
- What are warning signs of suicide risk?
- Common warning signs include withdrawing from friends and family, talking about wanting to die or feeling like a burden, expressing deep hopelessness, major changes in sleep or appetite, taking more risks than usual and giving away personal possessions. Any talk or sign about suicide should be taken seriously.
- How can I support someone who may be thinking about suicide?
- Stay calm and listen without judging, take their feelings seriously, ask directly if they are thinking about suicide, do not leave them alone if the risk seems high, remove access to highly dangerous means where possible and help them contact a trusted family member, mental health professional, helpline or health facility.
- Where can someone get mental health help in Bangladesh?
- In Bangladesh, emotional support is available from services like Kaan Pete Roi, which offers confidential listening over the phone, and from government facilities such as the National Institute of Mental Health and mental health units in some public hospitals. Private psychiatrists and psychologists in many cities also provide counselling and treatment.