World Suicide Prevention Day

World Suicide Prevention Day History

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is an annual observance focused on raising awareness about suicide, its impacts on individuals, families, and communities, and the importance of suicide prevention strategies. The purpose of WSPD is to destigmatise conversations surrounding suicide and promote awareness of the available support and resources. The day also emphasises the significance of mental health and wellbeing, recognising that everyone can play a role in suicide prevention.

Established by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in 2003, WSPD has since been observed in various countries worldwide, with Australia being one of the active participants. The relevance of WSPD in Australia is stressed by the concerning statistics on suicide in the country. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged between 15 and 44. Additionally, Lifeline Australia reports that approximately 65,000 Australians attempt suicide each year, with an average of eight people dying by suicide each day. This highlights the importance of observing WSPD in Australia to raise awareness and engage communities in suicide prevention efforts.

In Australia, WSPD is typically observed through a range of events and activities focused on promoting awareness, education, and support for those affected by suicide. These include community gatherings, mental health seminars, awareness-raising campaigns, and fundraising events for organizations dedicated to suicide prevention. Individuals and organizations also join the global movement by lighting a candle near a window at 8 pm on September 10th, symbolising support for suicide prevention, for the survivors of suicide, and in remembrance of those lost to suicide.

World Suicide Prevention Day facts

• The theme World Suicide Prevention Day 2023 willbeswas: Creating Hope Through Action.
• Approximately 800,000 people die due to suicide every year worldwide, according to the World Health Organization.
• Men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women, yet women are more likely to report suicidal thoughts.
• In Australia, suicide remains a major public health issue, with around 3,000 lives lost each year due to suicide.
• Research indicates that men are at higher risk, with around 75% of suicide deaths in Australia are male.

In the News and Trending in Australia for World Suicide Prevention Day

Top things to do in Australia for World Suicide Prevention Day

• Explore Find a Helpline, a free online tool that connects people to helplines. This tool was established by the non-profit Live for Tomorrow and is available in over 50 countries. It lists over 1,400 services for those seeking help either for themselves or for others.
• Show your support by wearing or displaying yellow or orange ribbons on World Suicide Prevention Day.
• Learn about suicide prevention methods and mental health resources available in Australia, such as helplines and online resources. Share this information with others to help create a more informed community.