By Susan Cherono

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is observed annually on 10th September to raise awareness about suicide and to promote coordinated global action to prevent it. Established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the day provides a vital platform for governments, organizations, communities, and individuals to engage in activities that foster understanding, reduce stigma, and encourage support for those struggling with suicidal thoughts.

Globally, suicide remains a pressing public health concern. More than 700,000 people die by suicide every year, making it one of the leading causes of death among young people aged 15–29 years. Beyond the tragic loss of life, suicide has far-reaching emotional, social, and economic impacts on families, friends, and entire communities.

WSPD emphasizes that suicide is preventable and underscores the need for a multi-sectoral approach. Effective prevention requires the integration of mental health services, education systems, community support networks, and public awareness initiatives. Each year, the observance is guided by a central theme that informs global activities such as awareness campaigns, conferences, policy dialogues, and outreach programs—all aimed at fostering hope, resilience, and compassion.

The 2025 theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” highlights the importance of reshaping public attitudes toward suicide. It calls for open, compassionate conversations, the dismantling of stigma, and the correction of misconceptions that hinder people from seeking help. This approach reinforces that suicide is not inevitable. By fostering understanding, ensuring accessible support, and implementing evidence-based policies, countless lives can be saved.

Around the world, WSPD is marked by initiatives such as awareness walks, candlelight vigils, workshops, conferences, and digital campaigns, which provide opportunities for education, engagement, and solidarity. Importantly, the observance also reinforces the role of diverse sectors—including health services, educational institutions, community organizations, and even libraries—in creating safe spaces, offering reliable information, and facilitating pathways to professional care.

Ultimately, World Suicide Prevention Day serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility. It challenges societies to move beyond silence and stigma and to cultivate environments of hope, resilience, and compassion. By recognizing the scale of the issue and actively participating in prevention efforts, communities can affirm the value of every life and contribute to a world where individuals in crisis feel seen, supported, and empowered to seek help.