LETS TALK 2020

What is World Suicide Prevention day?

 

World Suicide Prevention Day is held each year on September 10th. It’s an annual
awareness raising event organized by International Association for Suicide Prevention
(IASP) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

This year’s theme is again this year is “Working Together to Prevent Suicide”
because IASP believes that collaboration is the most important aspect of effective
global suicide prevention.

Why is it important?

More than 800,000 people take their lives each year across the world. In Japan, more
than 20,000 people die by suicide a year – an average of 54 a day.Reaching out to
people who are going through a difficult time can be a game changer.

People who are feeling low or suicidal often feel worthless and think that no-one cares.
Small things like hearing from friends or family, feeling listened to or just being told that
‘it’s ok to talk’ can make a huge difference.

The purpose of this day is to raise awareness around the globe that suicide can be
prevented.

In past years, over 300 activities in around 70 countries were reported to IASP,
including educational and commemorative events, press briefings and conferences,
as  well as Facebook and Twitter coverage.

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All of us need connections in our lives to give us a sense of belonging. The lack of authentic and deep connections is seeing many of our everyday concerns escalating from worry and sadness to depression, anxiety and even suicide. Many of us struggle to connect with our family, friends and community during difficult times given the stigma associated with some social issues and mental illness.

The fear of being ignored, judged, humiliated or punished in some cases are stronger than the will to ask for help. Talking about a problem is sometimes seen as a weakness leaving people with little choice but to carry their burden alone and in silence. For many of, we are often unsure what to say, and what not to say? How do we even approach someone who is showing telltale signs of distress? And if we can’t help them, who else can?

TELL is proud to be an advocate for the “Let’s Talk” international mental health awareness campaign. The program encourages people to talk openly about their concerns with a Let’sTALK Mentor, who has the skills and confidence to engage and empower the person towards working through their challenges with the help of others as required.

All of us can make a difference, with one simple conversation. Taking a minute to reach out to someone – a complete stranger or close family member or friend – can change the course of their life. With COVID-19 creating much fear, anxiety and despair to millions of people throughout the world; and social distancing isolating so many in our communities, there is no better time than right now to connect and care for each other.

To learn more about the Let’s Talk Program for your school, university or workplace please contact our Outreach coordinator Selena Hoy at outreach@telljp.com​

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Join us in World Suicide Prevention Day

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2020 marks the 18th World Suicide Prevention Day. The day was first recognized
in 2003, as an initiative of the International Association for Suicide Prevention and
endorsed by the World Health Organization. World Suicide Prevention Day takes place
each year on September 10.

On September 12th & 13th, join with others around the world who are working towards the
common goal of preventing suicide. Show your support by taking part in our Step Up for mental health challenge aimed at raising funds to take the TELL Lifeline 24 hours and create greater awareness about mental health issues in Japan.

Finally, if there is anyone you are concerned about, take a minute to check in with them.

It could change their life.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide call the TELL Lifeline at
03-5774-0992 between 9am – 11pm on the phone line and chat online here every
Friday, Saturday and Sunday night from 10:30pm – 2:00am.