The Highland Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) are pleased to support World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) on 10 September 2024.
WSPD is an awareness day observed on 10 September every year. It aims to promote worldwide commitment and action to prevent suicides, with various activities held around the world since 2003.
The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day from 2024-2026 is "Changing the Narrative on Suicide" with the call to action "Start the Conversation." This theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides.
Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue and shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.
On 10 September, communities across Highland are encouraged to participate in WSPD to raise awareness of mental health concerns and suicide prevention by connecting with friends, neighbours, and the wider community.
People consider suicide for a broad range of reasons and we can all help to make Highland suicide safer by letting people know we are open to talking about suicide and that there is support available.
This move from silence to understanding will help protect our friends, family and communities from suicide. We are showing that support through the activities taking place on world suicide prevention day.
Dr Tim Allison, NHS Highland’s Director of Public Health, said: “It is very important we raise awareness of the support available for people who are in crisis or who are experiencing poor mental health.
“Talking is a vital part of this process, whether that is with family, friends or neighbours. I would encourage everyone to connect with those close to you and have supportive conversations. Talking saves lives.”
Suicide Prevention Scotland has collaborated closely with health boards and other organisations across the country to produce a video featuring individuals working in suicide prevention, discussing how they are changing the narrative on this critical issue.
The video includes a 20-second clip of NHS Highland staff and partners involved in supporting suicide prevention. It is part of a larger film produced by Electrify, which aims to highlight the initiatives transforming the narrative around suicide prevention throughout Scotland.
We would like to take this opportunity to direct people to NHS Inform websites for detailed information on mental health services and resources to support individuals, their loved ones, and caregivers. These resources and services provide guidance to help individuals and their loved ones seek help for mental health challenges.
NHS 24 Mental Health Hub can also be contacted by telephoning 111 and choosing the mental health option. The Mental Health Hub team will direct individuals to the right help and can provide information about accessing local services.
If you require any further information, contact Martin Walker, NHS Highland, Health Improvement Specialist at martin.walker@nhs.scot .