Changing the Narrative: World Suicide Prevention Day

Every year on 10th September, World Suicide Prevention Day shares the message that suicide is preventable.

This year’s theme is “Changing the Narrative.” Opening up and changing how we talk about suicide can save lives.

Suicide is a global health issue. Some of the statistics are startling.

More than 700,000 people die by suicide every year. Globally, the suicide rate is twice as high in men. Data for England showed three times as many men than women died by suicide in 2023.

Changing the Narrative

A Samaritans poll said 71% of us were comfortable talking about mental health. But fewer than half – 45% – were comfortable talking about suicidal thoughts.

Changing this could save lives.

Open, honest conversation makes it easier for people to express their feelings and get support.

Suicidal thoughts can be complex, frightening and confusing. But they’re more common than we might think. 1 in 5 of us will experience them in our lives.

To help, we want to share some tips from the Samaritans about how to break the cycle and start talking openly about suicide. There are also links and resources that can help you, or someone you are concerned about.

Watch for changes

People having suicidal thoughts might be going through a lot of emotions, like feeling trapped, hopeless, or feeling that everything is too much. 

Everyone copes and reacts in their own way. But there can be signs when people are struggling.

Some signs to look out for include when someone is:

• Distancing themselves or not replying to messages
• Talking about feeling worthless, hopeless or trapped
• Not doing the things they usually enjoy
• Finding day-to-day tasks difficult

Speak Up

The hardest words to say can be the most important.

Let someone know you are there for them; if they need it, support is available.

The Samaritans have tips to help you start that conversation. Find a quiet, safe space. Listen without judgement and ask open questions. Just having someone there to listen can make all the difference.

Play your Part

If you’re worried about someone, take the lead and start the conversation. Asking how they feel shows you care.

Don’t be afraid to ask someone if they’re having suicidal thoughts. People who have been suicidal have often said it is a relief to talk about the thoughts they are experiencing. Just being there to listen and showing you care can help.

Ditch the Stigma

The same Samaritans poll showed that 71% of UK adults didn’t know how common suicidal thoughts were. One person in every five – 20% of the population will have them.

Changing the narrative is about making these conversations more normal. They may not always be easy, but that can be hugely important.

Help and Support

There are organisations that can offer support for whatever you are going through.