The World Health Organization reports that suicide is the cause of nearly 1 million global deaths each year. However, about 135 family members, friends, and colleagues suffer from the grief of each death. Because of that, suicidal behavior affects about 108 million people. Bringing more awareness to these statistics, the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) sponsors World Suicide Prevention Day.
If your son suffers from a substance use disorder, mental health condition, or trauma, they may be at heightened risk of suicide. However, there is hope when he gets treatment at an adolescent treatment center, such as Foothills at Red Oak. We’re proud to provide mental health treatment for co-occurring issues at our teen mental health treatment center. To learn more about our services or to enroll your son in treatment, please call our caring treatment specialists today at 866.300.5275 or use our convenient online form.
The Purpose of World Suicide Prevention Day
Since suicide is a top 20 leading cause of worldwide deaths, it’s a challenge everywhere in the world. In addition to the attempt and act of suicide, suicidal behavior includes thinking about it. This problem is the result of cultural, genetic, mental, social, and other factors. Even experiencing loss or trauma can lead to suicidal behavior without teen mental health treatment.
Since individuals who take their own lives are a diverse group, a range of issues can affect their final choice. For that reason, experts find it challenging to prevent the act of suicide. Only a cohesive, multilevel approach can overcome this challenge. In support of that effort, World Suicide Prevention Day spreads awareness and education about the issue.
The Theme for 2021
For World Suicide Prevention Day 2021, the IASP has chosen the theme Creating Hope Through Action. This theme reminds people across the globe that there is an alternative to suicide. It can also inspire confidence that actions bost big and small can provide hope to those around us. In order to participate, many organizations and other collaborators will organize events for Sept. 10. Also, anyone can participate in these events.
Cycle Around the Globe
One of the biggest events to mark World Suicide Prevention Day 2021 is Cycle Around the Globe. From Sept. 10 through Oct. 10, participants can take on the challenge of collectively cycling 24,900 miles around the globe. In 2018, participants collectively cycled 15.8 times around the world. For this year’s event, the goal is to cycle even further.
Another objective of Cycle Around the Globe is to raise funds for suicide prevention activities. Although registering is free, the IASP encourages organizations to fundraise in support of suicide prevention resources. However, participants can cycle anywhere, including at home, as part of a race, or at the gym. This World Suicide Prevention Day event is all about bringing the global community together.
Other Ways to Join the Effort
There are a few other ways for individuals and organizations to support suicide prevention efforts. Light a Candle is an event that involves lighting a candle near a window at 8 p.m. on Sept. 10. The IASP has created postcards and e-cards in various languages to spread the word.
Individuals can also take part in the effort to prevent suicide in a variety of ways, such as:
- Reaching out to a friend who seems to be struggling
- Sharing information about preventing suicide
- Hosting a suicide prevention event
- Seeking mental health treatment
- Encouraging friends and family to talk about mental health issues
- Sharing stories about their own struggle with mental health
In addition, writers, bloggers, and other influential entities can increase awareness with downloadable banners. The IASP has created materials that teachers can use to spread awareness as well. Furthermore, the group has a downloadable document that explains how to reach out to those who could be suicidal. It also provides information about how to guide them to enroll in a mental health treatment center.
Get Help for Teens Who Exhibit Suicidal Behavior
Depression is a mental health disorder that leads to suicidal thoughts and attempts among teens. If your teen suffers from depression, get help at a teen depression treatment center. Foothills at Red Oak Recovery is an adolescent treatment center in NC that residents can depend on for recovery. However, we offer a range of other programs too, including:
Get involved with World Suicide Prevention Day. Help your teen and others get treatment to live healthier lives. Call our facility at 866.300.5275 to learn more about our services.
