World Suicide Prevention Day -How to Make a Difference
- Healthwatch Southend
- Sep 9
- 2 min read
World Suicide Prevention Day is observed annually on 10 September to raise awareness about how individuals and organisations can work together to create a world where fewer people die by suicide.
Evidence shows asking someone if they're suicidal can protect them. By asking someone directly about suicide, you give them permission to tell you how they feel and let them know that they are not a burden. People who have felt suicidal will often say what a huge relief it was to be able to talk about what they were experiencing. It won't prompt them to act.
Recognising the signs that someone may be considering suicide can save a life. When people are thinking about suicide they often show warning signs, though these can be subtle or misunderstood, so it’s important to trust your instincts if something feels 'off.'
If someone seems at immediate risk of suicide, they may display the following:
Talking about wanting to die or kill themselves
Expressing feelings of hopelessness, e.g. 'there’s no point,' or 'it’ll never get better'
Saying they feel like a burden e.g. 'everyone would be better off without me'
Saying goodbye, giving away possessions, or suddenly making a will
Even if suicide isn’t directly mentioned, there are behavioural and emotional signs to watch for:
Deep sadness, depression, or emotional numbness
Intense mood swings or sudden anger
Extreme guilt or shame
Feeling worthless or like a failure
Withdrawing from friends, family, or usual activities
Have a conversation with care. Here are some tips:
create a safe space
listen more than you talk - Silence is ok so don't rush to fill it. Let them speak
validate their feelings - 'I’m so sorry you’re feeling this way. You’re not alone'
assess the risk if you can - if they have a plan, they may be at higher risk and need immediate help. Call 111 and select the mental health option or 999
offer support, not solutions
More advice and support can be found here:
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