World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) takes place on Friday 10 September.
Suicide can affect everyone, with one in every 100 deaths worldwide resulting from suicide. Raising awareness, reducing the stigma around suicide, and encouraging well-informed action can reduce instances of suicide.
WSPD provides an opportunity to raise awareness of suicide and to promote action that has proven to reduce the number of suicides and suicide attempts.
Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, cabinet member for public health and wellbeing, said: “Every suicide is devastating and has a profound impact on loved ones and communities.
“Small actions can have a huge impact and could help someone who is seriously struggling with their mental health. You could make a real difference by doing something small, such as checking in on a friend or family member, or making yourself available to someone who may be experiencing poor mental health and needs to talk.”
This year there are plenty of opportunities to get involved, including training modules and interactive events:
- Zero Suicide Alliance (ZSA) has two free, online training modules focusing on suicide prevention. The modules take between 10-20 minutes to complete.
- Get involved in the ZSA #ZeroHero campaign – anumber of fun activities have been organised, centred on the idea of community. You can find more details on the ZSA’s website.
- Take part in the ‘Darkness into Light Walk’ on 10 September – this local community event has been organised by Get Warrington Talking and MoveMENt, to mark World Suicide Prevention Day. You can find more details about the event and book your place via Eventbrite.
- Take Time to Reach Out (PDF) has tips and suggestions to help you check in with someone in distress.
- The Stay Alive App is free and provides 24/7 support for people struggling with their mental health or who are contemplating suicide.
- Attend Champs’ webinar on 10 September to discuss and contribute to Cheshire and Merseyside’s updated No More Suicide Strategy, which will be launched early next year. You can find more details and book a place via Eventbrite
Find out more about World Suicide Prevention Day at iasp.info/wspd2021.
