World Suicide Prevention Day 2022

World Suicide Prevention Day 2022 is an international event sponsored by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organization (WHO). It takes place each year on 10th September and aims to raise awareness of suicide and how it can be prevented. The theme for 2022 is: ‘Creating Hope Through Action’.

Suicide is a complex issue and a tragic waste of life, and the worldwide suicide statistics make for tough reading:

Every year, between 800,000 and 1 million people die from suicide.
For every suicide, there are as many as 25 attempted suicides.
One person dies from suicide every 40 seconds.
Twice as many people die from suicide than from homicide.
The suicide rate for men is at least twice as high as for women — in many countries this ratio is far higher — see our blog: ‘Why Are Males More Likely to Attempt Suicide than Females?’.
Suicide is the leading cause of death among young people aged 15–24 years — see our blog: ‘The Increase in Pre-Teen and Teenage Suicide’.
Suicide rates are highest in people aged 70 years and older.

Suicides are preventable — but we cannot use the ‘one size fits all’ approach. Everyone is different and every suicide is different. However, with early & specific, evidence-based interventions, a life can be saved!

We need collaboration from governments on a worldwide scale, but we also need to remember that we can all play our part. WSPD22 is not only a time to raise awareness of suicide, but it is also a time to participate in training and learn the signs that may indicate suicidal ideation. We will then be in a better position to assist suicidal individuals everywhere, and to let them know that there is hope and that help is available.