On 10th September 2020, we mark World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) in support of worldwide commitment and action to prevent suicides.

At the Mindstep Foundation, we’re encouraging our supporters to call and check in with a friend, colleague or a family member. It could be someone that you’ve been meaning to catch up with for a while but simply haven’t been able to find the time. Or it could be someone that you speak to every day without having a meaningful conversation.

With the ongoing effects of the global pandemic, it is more important than ever that we keep communicating with those we care about. Statistics have shown that since the start of Covid-19, mental health has worsened by an average of 8.1% in the UK. For those whose mental health is suffering, a small gesture such as taking a minute to reach out and start a conversation can go a long way.

“World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is such a vital date in the global suicide prevention calendar. On the 10th September each year we remember the 800,000 people who die by suicide each year. That equates to one suicide every 40 seconds. The theme of WSPD this year is Working Together to Prevent Suicide and this is such an important message as it is only by all of us working together that we’ll prevent suicide.

A renewed focus on suicide prevention in 2020 is even more important than ever as we navigate the effects of COVID-19 and protect the most vulnerable in society. Indeed, we are incredibly grateful to the Mindstep Foundation for supporting our research into tracking the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of adults across the UK at this crucial time. Such support is vital to fund life-saving research as we continue the fight against suicide.”

Professor Rory O’Connor. Director, Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, University of Glasgow Vice President, International Association for Suicide Prevention