Suicide is a major concern globally as one of the 100 deaths happens because of suicide. To raise awareness and to reduce stigma around suicide, every year World Suicide Prevention Day is celebrated on September 10, across the globe. The day is organized by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the association is officially supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
As per the IASP, World Suicide Prevention Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of suicide and to promote action through proven means that will reduce the number of suicides and suicide attempts globally.
World Suicide Prevention Day 2021: Theme
Every year, the day is celebrated under a specific theme and this year’s theme for the day is – “Creating hope through action.”
“This year’s theme reflects the need for collective, action to address this urgent public health issue. All of us- family members, friends, co-workers, community members, educators, religious leaders, healthcare professionals, political officials and governments- can take action to prevent suicide in the Region,” noted the WHO website.
Also Read: International Literacy Day 2021: From History to theme to significance, here’s all about the day
World Suicide Prevention Day 2021: History
For the first time in history, the day was successfully celebrated in the year 2004, and after this event WHO agreed to celebrate the day annually. Now, the day is celebrated in around 60 countries of the world.
In 2016, a double-toned ribbon was created to raise awareness about the day. The ribbon consists of two colours – yellow and orange, which represented the flame of a candle, something often seen at events trying to raise awareness about suicide prevention.
In 2018, Twitter added the ribbon emoji with the hashtag for World Suicide Prevention Day.
Also Read: Reeling under stress! Checkout these secrets to become mentally strong?
World Suicide Prevention Day 2021: Significance
The day is observed to raise awareness about suicide prevention and encourage understanding. The day informs people how to deal with suicidal thoughts and how to comfort your friend if he/ she is depressed.
The day also emphasizes the importance to reduce social stigma related to suicide. This stigma should be reduced so that one will feel more comfortable in coming forward to seek help.
World Suicide Prevention Day 2021: Events
This year a webinar would be organized on Friday (September 10, 2021) from 2 pm to 3:30 pm (EDT). The webinar would be hosted by the Department of Non-communicable Diseases and Mental Health. The session would be bilingual, Spanish and English would be used.