This is Suicide Prevention Week

Posted on September 8, 2014 by southbaynami

The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Federation for Mental Health, is hosting World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10th, 2014. This year’s theme is “Suicide Prevention: One Wold Connected,” and will focus on raising awareness that suicide is a major preventable cause of premature death on a global level. Governments need to develop policy frameworks for national suicide prevention strategies. At the local level, policy statements and research outcomes need to be translated into prevention programs and activities in communities.

The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) was founded in Vienna, Austria in 1960 as a working fellowship of researchers, clinicians, practitioners, volunteers and organizations of many kinds. IASP wishes to contribute to suicide prevention through the resources of its members and in collaboration with other major organizations in the field of prevention. AAS is proud to be a member and supporter of IASP (www.med.uio.no/iasp).

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a United Nations health agency founded in April 1948. Its primary objective is to help all people attain highest possible level of health (physical, mental and social well-being). This organization carries out this objective through advocacy, education, research medical and technological development as well as the implementation of health standards and norms (www.who.int/en/).

The World Federation for Mental Health’s mission is to promote the highest possible level of mental health in all aspects (biological, medical, educational and social) for all people and nations. Their goals are to heighten public awareness, promote mental health, prevent mental disorders and improve the care and treatment of those with mental disorders (www.wfhm.org).

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Warning Signs for Suicide:

These signs may mean someone is at risk for suicide. Risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased and if it seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. Seek help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional or calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255).