Every year, according to the World Health Organisation, more than 800,000 people die by suicide and up to 25 times as many make a suicide attempt. These numbers are staggering, indicating that the victims of suicide or those who may be inclined to take their own lives may be more present in our daily lives than we realise.
After a successful launch in 2003, World Suicide Prevention day (WSPD) is now held every year on September 10 to create more awareness around the issue. On this day, The International Association for Suicide Prevention in collaboration with the WHO mobilises governments, NGOs and other associations while various calls to public action at the local level are organised through events and campaigns.
To create awareness on the above theme, Samaritans Mumbai, a helpline providing emotional support for those who are stressed, distressed, depressed, or suicidal, is organising a walkathon from 7 a.m. on Sunday, September 10, from Bandra Reclamation Ground to the MSRDC office and back to the starting point.
The theme of the 2017 World Suicide Prevention Day is ‘Take a minute, change a life.’ According to the international website of World Suicide Prevention Day: “As members of communities, it is our responsibility to look out for those who may be struggling, check in with them, and encourage them to tell their story in their own way and at their own pace. Offering a gentle word of support and listening in a non-judgemental way can make all the difference.”
