World Suicide Prevention Day 2024 is observed every 10th of September to raise awareness about suicide and promote preventative measures. Established by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in 2003, this day serves as a global call to action. The initiative aims to bring together people from all walks of life to highlight the importance of suicide prevention.
Each year, the day focuses on a specific theme that reflects current issues and advances in suicide prevention. The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day 2024 is “The importance of the language we use when talking about suicide.” This year’s focus underscores the need for responsible and sensitive communication about suicide to reduce stigma and encourage supportive dialogue.
Suicide By The Numbers
Suicide is a deeply complex and tragic issue that affects millions of lives globally. Understanding the statistics can help to shed light on the scale of the problem and the urgent need for effective intervention and support.
Global Impact
Each year, over 700,000 people die by suicide, making it one of the leading causes of death worldwide. This translates to one person every 40 seconds.
Demographic Differences
Suicide rates can vary significantly across different demographics. Men are more likely to die by suicide than women, with males accounting for nearly 75% of all suicides globally. In contrast, women are more likely to attempt suicide.
Youth and Suicide
Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds. For many young people, mental health struggles, social pressures, and a lack of adequate support systems contribute to this alarming statistic.
Regional Disparities
Certain regions see disproportionately higher suicide rates. For instance, countries in Eastern Europe and South Asia have some of the highest suicide rates, whereas countries with strong mental health support systems tend to report lower rates.
Economic Impact
The economic cost of suicide is staggering. It is estimated that the global economy loses over $1 trillion annually due to suicide and suicide-related behaviours, including the costs of healthcare, lost productivity, and law enforcement.
Mental Health and Prevention
Over 90% of people who die by suicide have a diagnosable mental health disorder at the time of their death. Early intervention, accessible mental health services, and strong social support networks are crucial in reducing suicide rates.
Language You Should and Shouldn’t Use
Language plays a crucial role in how we understand and discuss suicide. The words we choose can either contribute to breaking down the stigma or reinforce harmful stereotypes. Being mindful of the language we use when talking about suicide is essential in creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Use Compassionate and Respectful Terms:
- “Died by suicide” vs. “Committed suicide”: The term “committed” implies a criminal act, which can carry negative connotations. Saying “died by suicide” is more respectful and focuses on the loss of life rather than judgement.
- “Person at risk of suicide” vs. “Suicidal person”: The former phrase acknowledges the individual’s humanity and the temporary nature of their distress. It helps to avoid defining someone by their suicidal thoughts.
- “Survivor of suicide loss” vs. “Victim”: For those who have lost someone to suicide, it’s important to use language that recognises their experience without victimising them. “Survivor” implies strength and resilience.
Avoid Sensationalism:
- Avoid graphic descriptions: Describing the method or location of a suicide in detail can be triggering for others and might even lead to imitation. Instead, focus on the impact of the loss and the importance of seeking help.
- Steer clear of sensational headlines: Media and public discussions should avoid phrases like “shocking death” or “tragic end” when referring to suicide. These terms can romanticise or dramatize suicide, which is harmful.
- Refrain from using phrases like “epidemic” or “wave” when discussing suicide rates: These terms can create unnecessary panic and suggest that suicide is an uncontrollable phenomenon. Instead, focus on data and facts to provide a clear understanding.
Refrain from Negative Descriptions:
- “Suicide attempt” vs. “Failed attempt” or “Botched attempt”: Saying “failed” or “botched” can be incredibly harmful and demeaning. It suggests that success in suicide is possible, which is a dangerous notion. “Suicide attempt” is a neutral, factual term that respects the gravity of the situation.
- Avoid terms like “attention-seeking”: Describing someone’s behaviour as “attention-seeking” minimises their distress and dismisses their need for help. It’s important to validate their feelings and recognise their call for support.
- “Experiencing suicidal thoughts” vs. “Threatening suicide”: The former acknowledges that suicidal thoughts are a serious mental health issue that requires compassion and support. “Threatening” can imply manipulation or intent to harm others, which is rarely the case.
Promote Hope and Recovery:
- “Support is available” vs. “Nothing can be done”: Language that encourages seeking help and highlights the availability of support resources is essential. It offers hope to those struggling and assures them that they are not alone.
- “Seeking help is a sign of strength” vs. “You just need to be strong”: Encourage individuals to seek help by framing it as a courageous act. This shifts the narrative from self-reliance to community and professional support.
- “Recovery is possible” vs. “It’s hopeless”: Always convey that with the right support, people can recover from suicidal thoughts and go on to lead fulfilling lives.
Respect Cultural Sensitivities:
- Be mindful of cultural and religious considerations: Some communities may have specific beliefs or taboos related to suicide. It’s important to approach the topic with cultural sensitivity and respect, using language that honours these beliefs while promoting understanding and compassion.
- Avoid language that can alienate: Terms that may be neutral in one culture could be deeply offensive in another. Always consider the cultural context when discussing suicide to ensure that the conversation is inclusive and supportive.
Behavioural Signs in the Workplace That May Indicate Suicide Risk
Recognising behavioural changes in colleagues is vital for early intervention and suicide prevention. While not all changes signal suicide risk, some behaviours can be warning signs that someone is struggling and may need support.
Withdrawal from Colleagues:
- Social isolation: An employee who was once sociable but now avoids interaction with colleagues might be experiencing emotional distress. This withdrawal could include skipping team lunches, avoiding social events, or retreating from casual conversations.
- Avoiding teamwork: A sudden reluctance to participate in team projects or a noticeable decline in collaboration can indicate that the person is overwhelmed or mentally exhausted.
- Lack of communication: If someone who usually contributes actively in meetings suddenly becomes quiet or disengaged, it could be a sign of underlying struggles.
Decline in Performance:
- Decreased productivity: A noticeable drop in work output, missed deadlines, or a general decline in the quality of work might suggest that the person is distracted by personal issues or feeling hopeless about their situation.
- Increased errors: Frequent mistakes, poor decision-making, or a decline in attention to detail can be signs of mental fatigue or preoccupation with distressing thoughts.
- Neglecting responsibilities: If an employee begins to neglect their duties, take frequent unplanned absences, or shows a lack of interest in previously valued work, it may indicate deeper emotional issues.
Changes in Mood or Behaviour:
- Irritability or anger: Sudden outbursts of anger, frustration, or irritability, especially if the person was previously calm, can be a sign of emotional distress. This behaviour might be a way of expressing internal turmoil.
- Apathy or indifference: A shift from being engaged and motivated to showing little interest or enthusiasm for work or life in general can indicate depression or hopelessness.
- Excessive fatigue: Persistent tiredness, appearing sleepy at work, or frequently expressing feelings of exhaustion may reflect both physical and mental exhaustion, possibly linked to stress or depression.
Expressions of Hopelessness or Despair:
- Negative self-talk: An employee who frequently makes self-deprecating comments or talks about feeling like a burden may be struggling with feelings of worthlessness or depression.
- Pessimistic outlook: A noticeable shift towards a consistently negative or hopeless outlook, such as frequently expressing that “things will never get better,” could signal that the person is feeling trapped or overwhelmed.
- Open discussion of suicide or death: If someone talks about suicide, even in a seemingly casual or joking manner, or expresses a fascination with death, it should be taken seriously. These comments can be a direct cry for help.
By staying aware of these behavioural signs, colleagues and managers can offer timely support, helping to prevent a potential crisis. If you notice these signs in someone, it’s important to reach out with compassion and encourage them to seek professional help.
Wellity Training Support
At Wellity, we are here to support you on World Suicide Prevention Day 2024 with a range of our expertly designed topics, specifically tailored to address these crucial issues in the workplace and beyond.
- The Suicide Prevention Programme: Be the Light
- Breaking the Silence: Preventing Male Suicide
- Preventing Suicide: Together
- Breaking the Chains of Isolation: Cultivating a Sense of Connection
Book a meeting with our team to discuss these sessions in more detail.
