Changing the narrative
A conversation, no matter how small, can help break down barriers, raise awareness, and create better cultures of support, which can lead to reducing the number of suicides across the world each year. The goal of World Suicide Prevention Day, commemorated on Sept. 10, is to highlight how changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue.
That is why the theme for 2024-2026 is “Start the conversation.” The day—sponsored since 2003 by the World Health Organization and the International Association for Suicide Prevention—also stresses the importance of shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.
Suicide is a major public health challenge, with more than 700,000 deaths each year globally. Each suicide has far-reaching social, emotional, and economic consequences, and deeply affects individuals and communities worldwide. The call to action encourages everyone to start the conversation on suicide and suicide prevention.
The IASP has a page with resources for Sept. 10 here. The organization also offers access to crisis helplines in your community by visiting their resources page.
Dallas ISD’s Mental Health Services has provided students with a sticker that includes the number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline and other outreach resources if they are in crisis and has shared community resources to help team members address the topic with students:
- The Texas Suicide Prevention Collaborative has resources on their website.
- They also offer a free training: Suicide Safer Schools
- Suicide and Crisis Center of North texas
Source: World Health Organization, International Association for Suicide Prevention, and Dallas ISD
