World Suicide Prevention Day is held on September 10th of each year. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about suicide and suicide prevention. And important piece of Suicide Prevention is to educate others and work towards decreasing stigma.
To read my post, 37th National Suicide Prevention Week, click here.
The theme in 2011 is "Preventing Suicide in Multicultural Societies". Many countries harbor different minority groups, in the form of various indigenous peoples, immigrant groups, and refugees. This means that in all countries there are traditions and religions and perspectives.
Culture describes interaction between individuals and their surroundings. It is important to understand that cultural sensitivity does not necessarily mean complete difference. We must recognize difference as well as similarities.
According to the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), approximately 1 million take their own life each year.
Level of stigma may differ depending on the minority group. This is one reason as to why it is important to spread awareness world wide. Perspective on suicide may vary depending on whether the majority of a certain culture views suicidal behavior as taboo. Religion, spirituality and gender roles often play a part.
EVERYONE can contribute to the efforts of suicide prevention. It's not just a job for psychotherapist and social workers. Teachers, police, journalists, religious leaders, politicians, family and friends and can all participate.
Ways in which you can contribute to future World Wide Suicide Prevention Days and National Suicide Prevention Weeks varies. Educate yourself and educate others. Have conversations and be that ripple in the pond. Hold conferences in your home, or publicize suicide prevention on your websites. Decrease stigma against suicide and mental illness by standing up for those who are referred to as "crazy", "lazy" or "selfish". While suicide can ultimately be viewed as a selfish act, it is important to know that those who are feeling suicidal are not thinking rationally.
It is also important to mention the upcoming International Survivors of Suicide Day which will take place on November 13th, 2011. This will mark the 13th annual day which unites individuals who have lost loved ones. Conferences are being held in and outside of the U.S. To find a location near you visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention here. For those who are unable to make it to a conference there is an option to view a conference online. To sign up for an online viewing click here.
One way to show your support financially is to purchase these rubber purple and turquoise bracelets which represent suicide prevention.
The bracelets say "Finding Hope on Our Life Journeys" on one side with the American Association of Suicidology web site on the other (www.suicidology.org). They are sold in sets of 20 and a portion of the proceeds to the American Association of Suicidology to help fund suicide bereavement research.
Resources:
For more information about the International Association for Suicide Prevention click here.
To visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline website click here.
If you are currently in crisis call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
I reccommend reading Night Falls Fast: Understanding Suicide by Kay Redfield Jamison. To learn more about this book and to purchase it, click here.
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