Changing The Narrative On World Suicide Prevention Day
From 2024 to 2026, the World Health Organization’s theme to create awareness on suicide prevention is Changing the Narrative on Suicide
September 10 is marked as World Suicide Prevention Day by the World Health Organization. From 2024 to 2026, WHO adopted the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” urging for more conversation on the issue.
Raising awareness
On its website, WHO explained the story behind the theme of the World Suicide Prevention Day campaign.
“This theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides,” the organization said. “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.”
The conversation should continue according to the organization, saying that no matter how small it may be, it creates support and understanding in society.
“By initiating these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create better cultures of support.”
Educating on suicide prevention and mental health
But more than speaking about it, the health organization points out that suicide prevention and mental health issues need to be one of the priorities in policy-making among governments worldwide.
“Changing the narrative requires advocating for policies that prioritize mental health, increase access to care, and provide support for those in need.”
In the Philippines, campaigns and talks have been done on the issue of mental health. Once a taboo subject, several organizations and personalities have spoken on the matter, especially during the pandemic, which left everyone stuck at home.
More than educating people, it’s important that communication is the key to preventing suicide. Parents and kids should be open to one another because this assures the family that it’s okay to speak and express the feeling, something that was not done in past generations.
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