September 10: World Suicide Prevention Day

Every September 10th, the world commemorates World Suicide Prevention Day, a date proclaimed by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), with the purpose of raising awareness about the importance of protecting mental health and reducing deaths from this cause.

According to data from the WHO, more than 700,000 people take their own lives each year, making suicide one of the leading causes of death globally, especially among young people aged 15 to 29. For every completed suicide, it is estimated that at least 20 people attempt it, which shows the magnitude of the problem.

This year, the global campaign focuses on the theme “Creating hope through action”, a call to governments, institutions, and communities to strengthen public policies, psychological care, and social awareness to offer support to those going through moments of crisis. In Dominican Republic, various health institutions, community organizations, and educational centers hold talks, walks, and orientation activities, with the aim of reducing the stigma surrounding mental disorders and promoting the search for professional help. Specialists highlight the need to identify warning signs such as social isolation, drastic changes in behavior, loss of interest in daily activities, and expressions related to the lack of meaning in life. Recognizing these signs can be key to saving lives. The World Suicide Prevention Day seeks to remember that talking openly, providing emotional support, and strengthening mental health care are essential actions to prevent more people from losing their lives due to this preventable cause.

Tips to prevent suicide

• Speak without judgment and listen with empathy.
• Maintain contact with the person in crisis.
• Recognize warning signs such as isolation, drastic changes in behavior, or expressions of hopelessness.
• Encourage the search for professional help (psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors).
• Promote healthy habits such as getting enough sleep, exercising, and a balanced diet.
• Break the stigma surrounding mental health.
• Do not leave a person who is at imminent risk alone.

Help Channels

In the Dominican Republic, the Psychological Help Line of the Ministry of Public Health is available through 809-200-1400, and the National Health Service (SNS) offers assistance through 809-221-9111. Internationally, the findahelpline.com portal provides contacts for helplines in different countries. In the United States, the 988 line is available, while in Spain the Teléfono de la Esperanza: +34 717 003 717 operates.