07/16/2026
Su***de prevention is so much more than sharing a crisis number.
An estimated 700,000+ people die by su***de each year globally. Research shows that a single death by su***de impacts up to 135 people. Prevention, in its many forms, is vital to public health and to the lives impacted by suicidal ideation, behaviors, and loss.
The stigma of suicidal thoughts or behaviors is embedded in our language, in our beliefs, and in the systems that further perpetuate the mental health concerns experienced by those with suicidal ideation. For instance, saying someone “committed su***de” is a commonly used phrase which can imply moral failure or criminality. Alternatively, “died by su***de” offers a more intentional way to discuss, removing the blame or shame of the individual.
Some su***de prevention includes structural changes via policies, funding, and education. Prevention on an individual level can include learning how to discuss suicidal ideation and normalizing its existence, or checking in on loved ones with a genuine listening ear.
If you are in crisis, use 988 for support. If you have suicidal thoughts, we encourage you to reach out for support. You aren’t abnormal, you aren’t too much, you aren’t alone.
