World Suicide Prevention Day

Every year organisations and communities around the world come together to raise awareness of how we can create a world where fewer people die by suicide.

Each year has a different theme and focus, to bring to light a specific aspect of suicide prevention.

World Suicide Prevention Suicide Day is always on 10 September.

The latest suicides statistics showed that in 2018, in the UK and Republic of Ireland, more than 6,800 people died by suicide. Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy.

And we know that suicide is preventable, it’s not inevitable.

But not being okay is still widely stigmatised. And governments can still make better, more ambitious plans to prevent suicide.

Every year we campaign with over 70 other suicide prevention and mental health groups under the National Suicide Prevention Alliance (NSPA).

Together, we ask governments in the UK and Ireland to make suicide prevention a priority, and help raise awareness about how we can each support each other better.

This year’s theme, which will be the theme until 2023, is ‘Creating Hope Through Action’, which aims to empower people with the confidence to engage with the complexity of ‘hope’.

On the day we will be asking people to share the things that they do which helps them feel hopeful when they’re going through a difficult time. For example:

• Reaching out for a coffee with my best mate
• Taking a walk in the fields and letting the wind blow everything away
• Go for a run along the seafront

There are lots of ways you can support World Suicide Prevention Day. We have been working on content for you to share on the day (Friday 10 September).

Download assets for your social media channels below or share one of our suggested posts on social media.

Please note that our 'Staying hopeful during a difficult time' webpage (linked to below) won't be live 7:00 am Friday 10 September.

WSPD suggested social posts

If you would like to tag us on Facebook or Instagram, please use the handle @samaritanscharity in the below posts.

What helps you to stay hopeful when you’re struggling?

Copy:  I believe we can all play an active part in suicide prevention, which is why I’m supporting @samaritans this World Suicide Prevention Day.

They've compiled a list of tips and resources to help you remain hopeful during a difficult time. https://bit.ly/2XIR8q0 #WSPD

Tip 1: Going on a walk with a friend

Copy:  Going on a walk with friends or family can be a great way to help boost our overall mood and wellbeing.

@samaritans have some great resources to help you look after yourself and bring hope in these tough times. #WSPD https://bit.ly/2XIR8q0

Tip 2: Keeping a gratitude journal

Copy:  Connecting with how you're feeling by writing your thoughts down could help you stay safe in a crisis.

@samaritans have shared practical techniques to help bring hope, which I’m sharing today in support of #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #WSPD https://bit.ly/2XIR8q0

Tip 3: Pause and reflect

Copy:  Over the past year, many of us may have experienced feelings of overwhelm and uncertainty.

@samaritans have shared useful tips on how you can take the time to pause and reflect to help you manage your thoughts. https://bit.ly/2XIR8q0 #WSPD

Signposting

Copy: You may have seen a lot of difficult content this #WSPD. Remember, @samaritans are open 24/7 for emotional support if you need to talk.

You can call them any time, day or night, on 116 123, or email [email protected] 💚