10 September 2021
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day which aims to raise awareness of suicide, improve education, and decrease the stigma.
World Suicide Prevention Day first started in 2003 and is co-sponsored by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP).
The Government works closely with the National Suicide Prevention Alliance which is a member of the IASP.
Over one million people commit suicide each year and it is estimated that each death has an impact on over 100 people. In the last ten years, 87 people in Jersey have died from suicide.
The Government has launched an initiative to help reduce the stigma and increase Islander's abilities to get help. The initiative will give Government employees and Islanders access to 'Zero-suicide Alliance Training' which will be available through the Mental Health Network.
Consultant Nurse, Ronan Mulhern, said: "Suicide is a preventable cause of premature death and this training will benefit those who support someone or know someone who has suffered mental health illnesses.
"Through taking a bit of time out of your usual schedule, you can make a huge difference to suicide prevention in Jersey and even help save someone's life."
gov.je