Suicide is a major public health challenge, claiming more than 7,20,000 lives every year. Each life lost has profound social, emotional, and economic consequences, deeply affecting families, friends, workplaces, and entire communities around the world.
World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10) was established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in partnership with the World Health Organization.
‘Start the Conversation’ is the call to action to mark the final year of the triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day (2024–26), Changing the Narrative on Suicide. It calls on people to challenge harmful myths, reduce stigma, and foster open, compassionate conversations about suicide. It is about transitioning from silence and misunderstanding to openness, empathy, and support, creating environments where people feel able to speak up and seek help. It also calls for prioritising suicide prevention and mental health in public policy, urging governments and institutions to take action.
Published on September 7, 2026
