The World Health Organisation (WHO) has informed that more than 700 000 people die by suicide every year, which is one person every 40 seconds.

The UN health agency stressed that suicide is a global phenomenon and occurs throughout the lifespan. Effective and evidence-based interventions can be implemented at population, sub-population and individual levels to prevent suicide and suicide attempts.

According to the WHO data, there are indications that for each adult who died by suicide there may have been more than 20 others attempting suicide.

The WHO emphasized that suicide is a major public health problem with far-reaching social, emotional and economic consequences.

The WHO added that “Creating Hope Through Action” is the triennial theme for the World Suicide Prevention Day from 2021-2023. This theme serves as a powerful call to action and reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and that through our actions we can encourage hope and strengthen prevention.

“By creating hope through action, we can signal to people experiencing suicidal thoughts that there is hope and that we care and want to support them. It also suggests that our actions, no matter how big or small, may provide hope to those who are struggling,” the UN agency said.

“Lastly, it serves as a reminder that suicide prevention is a public health priority and urgent action is required to make sure suicide mortality rates are reduced. WHO will continue to work with its partners to support countries to take concrete measures in this direction,” it further added.