Suicide Prevention Week

PEOPLE across Dundee are being urged to think about whether a conversation could save a life as part of a national campaign to reduce the number of people who take their own lives.

Monday (September 8) sees the start of Suicide Prevention Week and agencies across the city have come together as part of efforts to try to reduce the death toll.

According to the most recent figures probable deaths by suicide in 2023 across Scotland showed a total of 792, an increase of 30 on the previous year. Over the same period in Dundee, 30 people died by probable suicide, up one on 2021.

Suicide rates for men are three times as high as women, and rates are over twice as high in the most deprived areas compared to those least deprived.

The campaign coincides with World Suicide Prevention Day which falls on September 10 and activities during the week will focus on the theme: “What if a conversation about suicide could save a life?”.

A new short film highlighting people's lived experience, promotion of supports and capturing some of the activities taking place will be available each day on partners’ social media platforms during the week.

Information stalls are also being held at various locations across the city.

World Suicide Prevention Day was established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in conjunction with the World Health Organisation (WHO). The annual date aims to focus attention on the issue, reduce stigma and raise awareness among organisations, governments and the public, highlighting the message that suicide are preventable.