Mims Davies MP raises awareness of Suicide Prevention Month
World Suicide Prevention Day was established in 2003 and is on the 10th September each year by the International Association for Suicide Prevention and provides the opportunity for people, across the globe, to raise awareness of suicide and suicide prevention.
The 10 September each year aims to focus attention on the issue, reduces stigma and raises awareness among organizations, governments, and the public, giving a singular message that suicides are preventable.
Suicide is the single biggest killer of men under the age of 45 in the country, but suicides among teenage girls and young women have almost doubled in recent years.
The triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day for 2024-2026 is "Changing the Narrative on Suicide" with the call to action "Start the Conversation".
This theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides. Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue and shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.
Mims Davies MP said:
"This month is Suicide Prevention Month and we have to change the narrative.
We absolutely have to enable people to feel comfortable to speak out and share if they're having negative thoughts and not feel like it is a taboo subject.
We lose far too many friends and loved ones to suicide and together, we can change this.
Please reach out to your friends and family if you need support. If you don't feel like you can or would prefer to speak to a stranger, you can call the Samaritans Helpline Number 116-123, or call 999 if you need urgent help."