Every year on September 10th, communities across the globe come together to mark World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD),a day of reflection, connection, and, above all, action. At Limerick Mental Health Association, we stand in solidarity with individuals, families, and organizations working tirelessly to break the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health.
This years theme is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.” We believe that changing the way we talk about suicide is key to changing how we prevent it. Stigma, silence, and shame have kept too many people suffering in the shadows. It’s time to replace fear with understanding, isolation with connection, and hopelessness with hope.
What Does “Changing the Narrative” Mean?
For decades, the conversation around suicide has been surrounded by misinformation, judgement, and silence. This has created barriers to seeking help, especially for those who feel alone in their pain.
Changing the narrative means:
- Talking openly and compassionately about suicide and mental health
- Encouraging people to seek support without shame
- Recognizing that suicidal thoughts are not signs of weakness, but of deep emotional pain
- Replacing blame with empathy
- Amplifying stories of survival, healing, and hope
Why It Matters
In Ireland and around the world, suicide continues to have a profound impact, not just on individuals, but on families, workplaces, schools, and entire communities. Changing how we speak about suicide can reduce stigma, encourage earlier intervention, and ultimately save lives.
When we shift the narrative, we also shift the outcome.
Your Words Can Change a Life
At Limerick Mental Health Association, we often hear the same questions:
“What can I do?”
“I’m not a professional, how can I help?”
The answer is simple: start the conversation.
- Reach out to someone you’re concerned about. Ask them how they’re really doing.
- Listen without judgment. You don’t need to have all the answers.
- Avoid harmful language. Say “died by suicide” instead of “committed suicide.” Words matter.
- Share your own experiences if you feel comfortable, your story might inspire someone else to seek help.
- Promote support services and community groups that provide real help to those in crisis.
If You Need Help
If you or someone you care about is in crisis or feeling overwhelmed, please know that you are not alone and support is available 24/7:
- Samaritans: Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.ie
- Pieta House: Call 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444
- Your GP or local A&E in emergencies
Final Thoughts
Changing the narrative on suicide begins with each of us. It begins with one conversation, one act of kindness, one step toward a more compassionate and connected world.
Let’s choose to talk.
Let’s choose to listen.
Let’s choose to change the narrative — together.
#WSPD2025 #ChangingTheNarrative #LimerickMentalHealth #EndTheStigma