The theme of this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day (10th September 2017) is “Take a minute, change a life”; reminding us all how the very simple day-to-day interactions we have with others, have the potential to make a huge difference to someone who may be struggling or feeling vulnerable. Offering a compassionate and non-judgemental listening ear, some gentle words of encouragement and appropriate information on where else to seek help, can make all the difference.

World Suicide Prevention Day Photo

Take a minute, change a life

We are all part of a community, social or otherwise, linking us to friends, family, colleagues or neighbours. A sense of community is very important for maintaining our mental health and helps foster a supportive network for everyone involved, especially for those going through tough times. We all have a responsibility to actively listen to, support and empower those who become vulnerable in our communities.

  • Read practical tips and information on how you can help by; reaching out, listening and responding to others who are going through a difficult time.

  • Read about the national mental health and wellbeing campaign #littlethings, which focuses on sharing evidence-based, simple and powerful day-to-day steps – little things that we can all do to protect our own mental health, and support the people we care about.

  • Locate services and supports that are available to you and others, across the country, here.

safeTALK Logo     ASIST Logo

safeTALK and ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) are community-based training programmes, widely available to “gatekeepers” in our communities; people who have the potential to connect with others who may be in distress or crisis. Some examples include sports coaches, teachers, parents, community workers or staff working in health-related settings – people who have the opportunity to “take a minute and change a life”. The provision of safeTALK training and ASIST in the Republic of Ireland, is funded by the HSE.

  • Find details of free safeTALK, ASIST and other courses that are available in your area here.

  • Contact your local coordinating person or office here.