World Suicide Prevention Day is an annual global observance held on September 10th each year. The primary objective of this day is to raise awareness about the critical issue of suicide and to promote worldwide efforts to prevent suicide.
It serves as a reminder that suicide is a major public health concern and that collective action is needed to reduce its prevalence.
On this day, organizations, communities, and individuals around the world come together to engage in activities, discussions, and initiatives aimed at increasing awareness of suicide risk factors, prevention strategies, and available support resources. These efforts often include educational campaigns, mental health seminars, and initiatives to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.
DID YOU KNOW: Men’s suicide rate is twice as high as the suicide rate for women, and it is also known as the “silent crisis.”
How to Observe World Suicide Prevention Day at Work
Resources: Ensure resources are available around the workplace or posted on a virtual work board. Send out an email or provide accessible resources in the office that include information and resources relating to Mental Health and support so everyone can learn more about suicide prevention and the importance of mental health.
Open door policy: Create an open door policy to promote conversation and honesty. It’s a helpful practice to check in with employees when they are having a rough time. However, checking in with employees daily or weekly, even when they’re doing fine, provides a more significant benefit. It allows you to notice potential red flags and address them before your employee reaches a low point.
Communications Template for World Suicide Prevention Day
[Subject: Suicide Prevention Day]
Hi all,
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. [Company Name] strives to create and safe and open workplace. We wanted to fill this email to not only spread awareness but also give you resources for help.
Some statistics regarding suicide from Our World in Data:
Globally, 800,00 people die from suicide every year.
1.4% of global deaths in 2017 were from suicide, and in some countries, it is as high as 5%.
Rates of suicide are often higher for older individuals.
Globally, the suicide rate for men, is twice as high as for women, and in many countries, that percentage is higher.
The center for suicide prevention's excellent blog post about How to Help Someone thinking about Suicide from the Centre for suicide prevention list some great resources.
The crisis line for in the USA is 1-800-273-8255 and in Canada is 1-833-456-4566. They are available 24/7 and you can call anytime and at no cost.
Your mental health matters.
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