The WHO and the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) have designated the 10th of September as World Suicide Prevention Day, with the objective of helping people at risk of suicide. Mental health issues, excessive stress, financial problems, illness and family conflicts are all possible triggers of suicidal thoughts and feelings.
According to WHO estimates more than 700,000 people die every year due to suicide. Data from the Federal Statistical Office shows that in 2021 more than 9,200 persons suicide deaths were registered in Germany. This represents almost three times the number of road accident fatalities.
WHO estimates for 2019 show a aged-standardized suicide rate of 9.0 per 100,000 population worldwide. Of the G7 countries, the USA had the highest (14.5) and Italy the lowest suicide rate per 100,000 persons (4,3). The suicide rate in Germany was 8.3. Among the BRICS countries the suicide rate was between 6.4 in Brazil and 23.5 in South Africa.
Information for the media: If you are a journalist covering a suicide-related issue, please consider following Samaritans’ media guidelines on the reporting of suicide, owing to the potentially damaging consequences of irresponsible reporting. In particular, the guidelines advise on terminology and include links to sources of support for anyone affected by the themes in the article.
Where to go for help: If you are struggling to cope, please call Samaritans free on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org or visit the Samaritans website to find details of the nearest branch. Samaritans is available round the clock, every single day of the year, providing a safe place for anyone struggling to cope, whoever they are, however they feel, whatever life has done to them.