World Suicide Prevention Day 2025: Changing the Narrative on Suicide

10 September 2025

Each year on 10 September, communities worldwide come together for World Suicide Prevention Day—a powerful reminder that when we act with courage, empathy, and unity, lives can be saved. Established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in collaboration with the World Health Organization, this day has become a global rallying point to spotlight the prevention of suicide and the value of every life World Health OrganizationWikipedia.

Our 2025 Theme: Changing the Narrative on Suicide

The triennial theme for 2024–2026—“Changing the Narrative on Suicide”—asks us to shift from silence, misunderstanding, and stigma toward openness, empathy, and meaningful support World Health OrganizationIASP+1.

What does this mean in practice?

1. Speak Openly and Compassionately – Use clear, compassionate language. Listening without judgment and acknowledging lived experiences can transform isolation into connection.
2. Challenge Public Perceptions – We must dismantle myths—such as the notion that talking about suicide increases risk—and promote mental health as everyone’s business World Health OrganizationIsrael Pharm.
3. Drive Systemic Change – Encouraging policymakers and institutions to prioritize suicide prevention through national strategies, improved access to care, and evidence-based interventions is essential World Health OrganizationIASPMates in Mind.

Intersect Global’s Role and Voice

As an organisation rooted in global empathy and action, Intersect Global stands committed to shifting this narrative—through awareness, advocacy, and accessible support.

• Awareness & Education: We use storytelling, webinars, and digital campaigns to foster open conversation and reduce stigma.
• Community Building: Through local partnerships worldwide, we create safe spaces, online and offline—for people to share, connect, and support each other.
• Policy Advocacy: We advocate for integrated mental health and suicide prevention initiatives to be embedded in public health systems globally.

Spotlight on nationwide Efforts

• Samaritans (UK & Ireland) emphasize one compelling message: “If you think someone might be suicidal, take action, interrupt their thoughts, and show them you care.” Their 2025 campaign, co-designed with people who have lived experience, underscores the impact of small, compassionate interventions Samaritans.
• On a local level, Ireland’s HSE has consistently encouraged public participation through training like “Let’s Talk About Suicide”, empowering individuals with the skills to identify and support those at risk The Sun.

How You Can Join the Conversation

Whether you’re an individual, organisation, or policymaker, there’s a role for you:

• Listen and Reach Out: A genuine check-in, an attentive ear, or simple empathy can interrupt despair.
• Talk About It: Use language that is open and non-judgmental. Encourage tough conversations.
• Share Resources: Spread awareness of mental health services and helplines—like Samaritans, Lifeline, 988, etc.
• Advocate and Act: Support policies that invest in mental health, support decriminalization of suicide, and enhance access to care.

Our Shared Vision

At Intersect Global, we envision a world where:

• Everyone feels heard and valued—where compassionate conversation transforms the darkest moments into light.
• Support is accessible and inclusive—with mental health care embedded in communities, schools, and workplaces.
• Prevention is proactive—where policies, education, and community action come together to safeguard life.

Remember: this isn’t just about one day. World Suicide Prevention Day is a catalyst, a reminder that every day, across every corner of the world, we have the power to change the narrative and save lives.