An estimated 703,000 people a year take their life around the world. For every suicide, there are likely 20 other people making a suicide attempt, and many more have serious thoughts of suicide. Veterinary professionals are making strides to increase well-being education and engage in suicide prevention training.

Each suicidal death is a public health concern that profoundly impacts those around them. By raising awareness, reducing the stigma around suicide, and encouraging well-informed action, we can reduce instances of suicide around the world.

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) was established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO). The 10th of September each year focuses attention on the issue, reduces stigma, and raises awareness among organizations, government, and the public, giving a singular message that suicide can be prevented.

"Creating hope through action" is the triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day from 2021 - 2023. This theme reminds us that there is an alternative to suicide and aims to inspire confidence and light in all of us.

By creating hope through action, we can signal to people experiencing suicidal thoughts that there is hope and that we care and want to support them. It also suggests that our efforts, no matter how big or small, may provide hope to those who are struggling. Lastly, it highlights the importance of setting suicide prevention as a priority public health agenda by countries, particularly where access to mental health services and availability of evidence-based interventions are already low. Building on this theme and spreading this message over the three years, a world can be envisioned where suicides are not so prevalent.

In support of World Suicide Prevention Day, the college has gathered some resources and links listed below.

The college is also planning some "Question, Persuade and Refer" (QPR) training later this semester, specifically for students and employees. Further details will be shared via the weekly email and other sources.

 

 

National Institute of Mental Health

Resources for suicide prevention training:

Resources for veterinary professionals:

Resources for employees:

Resources for students:

Local resources:

National hotlines:

If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741

Creating Hope Through Action Graphic