World Suicide Prevention Day
On 10th September each year we raise awareness about suicide and promote actions that can help prevent it
You are not alone. If you are feeling suicidal, help is available
Samaritans (116 123) is a 24-hour anonymous service available every day of the year. If you prefer not to speak on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.
PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is a voluntary organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal.
Breathing Space (0800 83 85 87) is a website and phone service for anyone experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety.
NHS 24 by dialling 111 if you feel you need to speak with a medical professional.
Content Warning: The following article discusses suicide and could be triggering.
World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) serves as a global platform to encourage understanding, reduce stigma and increase support for those struggling with suicidal thoughts.
Suicide is a global issue that affects millions of people every year, leaving behind grieving families, friends and communities. There were 792 probable suicides in Scotland in 2023, which is a 4% increase from the previous year. World Suicide Prevention Day is an opportunity to remember those lost to suicide and to show support for those who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts.
World Suicide Prevention Day aims to bring attention to this pressing issue by encouraging open conversations about mental health. It raises awareness about the importance of reducing stigma so we can shift from a culture of silence to one of openness, understanding and support.
This year, we’re joining the worldwide campaign to #StartTheConversation to change the narrative around suicide. It’s a responsibility for us all to raise awareness, share resources and promote supportive environments.
“As someone who sees the benefit of (the Suicide Bereavement Service) every day and knows the huge positive impact it is having on people’s lives, I am delighted that the Scottish Government has seen the value in what we do and has embedded the delivery of Suicide Bereavement Support into the new Suicide Prevention Strategy.”
Lara, who lost her beloved brother Graeme to suicide, talks about her journey with grief and the value of the Suicide Bereavement Service. Read more about Lara’s story here.
How you can get involved
Share information about World Suicide Prevention Day on social media, participate in community events or organise discussions to educate others about suicide prevention.
Equip yourself with knowledge about the signs of suicidal behaviour such as self-harm and depression and the ways to offer support. Share this information with your community to help others recognise when someone might need help.
If you know someone who may be struggling, reach out to them. A simple conversation can make a difference. Listen without judgement and encourage them to seek professional help. You can read more on the NHS inform website.
How to help yourself
If you’re struggling with suicidal thoughts, remember that help is available, and you don’t have to face this alone:
Talk to someone
Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional. Sharing your feelings can be a crucial step in getting the support you need.
Use helplines
In Scotland, organisations like Breathing Space (0800 83 85 87) and Samaritans (116 123) offer confidential, free support for those in distress. There are more helplines you can reach out to on top of this page.
Create a safety plan
Work with a professional to create a plan that includes strategies for staying safe, such as identifying triggers, coping mechanisms, and emergency contacts. If you’re uncertain where to start, there are resources available to help you create a safety plan.
support
Our Advice and Support Service is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4 pm, where advisers can signpost you to local support that most fits your needs, including our own Change Mental Health services. We offer initial advice on money worries and help to deal with emergencies.
Contact 0808 8010 515, email us at advice@changemh.org or fill out the enquiry form on the Advice and Support Service page.
