World Suicide Prevention Day

What Is World Suicide Prevention Day?

September 10th is "World Suicide Prevention Day," established in 2003 by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), marking the opening day of the World Suicide Prevention Conference held in Stockholm, Sweden that year. The day aims to deepen public understanding around suicide and encourage action toward prevention.

Efforts in Japan

Under Japan's Basic Act on Suicide Prevention, the week from September 10th to 16th is designated "Suicide Prevention Week." During this period, national and local governments, along with related organizations, run awareness campaigns and publicize available counseling services nationwide.

• Reinforcement month: March, when suicide rates tend to be highest, is separately designated "Suicide Prevention Reinforcement Month"
• Specialized bodies: organizations such as the Japan Support Center for Suicide Countermeasures conduct research, outreach, and policy proposals
• Gatekeepers: people who notice changes in those around them and reach out are considered key to effective prevention

You Don't Have to Carry It Alone

If you're struggling, or you sense that someone close to you seems different lately, reaching out to a professional support line is always an option. In Japan, the Yorisoi Hotline (0120-279-338) offers free, 24-hour support, and in an emergency, local medical services or the police consultation line (#9110) can also help. If you are outside Japan, please reach out to your local crisis line or emergency services.

Something You Can Do Today

• Check in on someone you care about with a simple "how have you been lately?" — a bit more attentively than usual
• If you're struggling yourself, don't carry it alone — reach out to a support line
• Learn accurate information about suicide prevention from books or public health resources
• Reflect on the importance of really listening — noticing small changes in the people around you

Prevention Starts With Simply Saying "I Notice You"

Suicide isn't something that only happens to certain kinds of people — anyone can face this kind of crisis. That's exactly why a small check-in with someone close to you, and knowing that places to talk about your struggles exist, can make a real difference. Let September 10th be a day to gently turn your attention toward your own heart, and the hearts of those you care about.