The World Health Organisation (WHO) has called for a shift in the narrative on suicide, urging for a shift from silence to openness, from stigma to empathy, and from neglect to support.
The organization has highlighted that suicide affects all age groups and was the third leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds globally in 2021.
The link between suicide and mental disorders, particularly depression and alcohol use disorders, is well-established in high-income countries.
However, many suicides occur impulsively in moments of crisis, with conflict, disaster, violence, abuse, loss, and isolation strongly associated with suicidal behaviour.
The WHO recognizes mental health as a universal human right and recommends limiting access to suicide means, promoting socio-emotional life skills, early identification, assessment, management, and following up on those affected by suicidal behaviours.
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