World Suicide Prevention Day
Suicide is
Preventable
World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) takes place each year on September 10 and this year’s theme is all about ‘Creating Hope Through Action.’
Unfortunately, suicide remains a growing problem locally and globally, and the numbers tell a shocking story.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) every 40 seconds someone takes their own life. That’s about 800,000 people worldwide every year — although some estimates put that number closer to 1 million.
Globally, suicide is the leading cause of death for people aged 15 to 29 and for every suicide that results in death,
It reminds us that sometimes a small action boosts our happiness and it reminds us that whilst happiness is a personal experience it’s also contagious.
Why marking World Suicide Prevention Day is important
1. Suicide affects all of us
Many people know somebody who has taken their own life or someone who has lost a friend or family member to suicide. WSPD is a time to reflect on the value of life and that no matter how bad things seem, there’s always hope.
2. With awareness comes action
One of the main goals of WSPD is ‘to increase awareness about suicidal behaviours and how to effectively prevent them,’ according to WHO. Knowledge makes us more sensitive to the issues in our society amd less likely to stigamatise or generalise.
3. It shines a spotlight on mental health issues
WSPD is a reminder that society needs consistent and increasing advocacy for mental health resources so that people struggling with poor mental health can find the help they need.
4. It reminds us that suicide is preventable
Suicide is a major cause of premature death on the Island of Ireland. However, most suicides are preventable with appropriate support and interventions. Many suicides are impulsive moments of crisis associated with significant life events. For example, people struggling with isolation, relationship breakdown, financial problems or work pressures. It can also be linked to pre-existing (diagnosed and undiagnosed) mental health conditions.
What can Workplaces do?
Prevent and reduce stress from work and be mindful of both work and non-work factors.
Offer flexibility and support such as:
- Adjusted hours for appointments
- Time off for legal or medical needs
- Guidance to services like GPs or employee assistance programmes (EAPs)
Promote good mental health by openly discussing it (directly on a one-to-one basis but also within teams), reducing stigma, and staying connected with remote workers.
Address triggers like bullying, harassment, discrimination, or major changes (e.g., restructuring, redundancies).
Support those with existing conditions – for example a mental health condition. Ask them how you can best support them.
Control access to potentially dangerous items for those you know, or suspect, might be at risk of self-harm.
If you suspect someone is suicidal:
Encourage them to seek support from professionals, trusted individuals, or helplines like Samaritans.
Signs someone may be struggling:
- Mood swings, isolation
- Sleep/eating pattern changes
- Low energy, neglecting self-care
- Risky behaviour, substance use
- Increased irritability
- Talking about suicide or giving away possessions
After a suicide or self-harm incident:
Support affected colleagues with counselling and/or consider initiating a Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) response.
Post-incident:
Review your workplace risk assessments and ensure others aren’t experiencing similar pressures.
An important reminder:
Managers, directors, owners, CEOs etc are also employees. Make sure to look after them (and yourself) too.