On Saturday September 10th, 2022, we hosted a livestream on Facebook to honour World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) 2022. WSPD, observed each year on September 10th, provides the opportunity for people across the globe to raise awareness of suicide and suicide prevention. One in every 100 deaths worldwide is the result of suicide. It can affect every one of us. Each and every suicide is devastating and has a profound impact on those around them. However, by raising awareness, reducing the stigma around suicide, and encouraging well-informed action, we can reduce instances of suicide around the world.
The theme for WSPD 2022 was Creating Hope Through Action. You can help give someone hope by showing that you care. All of us can play a role, no matter how small. We may never know what we do that makes a difference. We all can reach in and ask somebody. You do not need to tell them what to do or have solutions, but simply making the time and space to listen to someone about their experiences of distress or suicidal thoughts can help. Small talk can save lives and create a sense of connection and hope in somebody who may be struggling. For more information on WSPD, visit the International Association of Suicide Prevention’s website, and for more examples of how to reach out and make connections, click here.
Click here to watch a recording of our livestream where we lit a candle in memory of those who have suicided, shared some life experiences with suicidality, had a live Q&A on suicide prevention, and hoped to provide a message of hope into action. If you are in need of support, please click here to access our locations page. Or, click here to access our ONTX chat program between the hours of 2PM – 2AM EST daily. You can also access ONTX by texting SUPPORT to 258258.