HSE encourages people to reach out to support suicide prevention

The HSE is calling on people across Ireland to take practical steps to support suicide prevention as organisations and communities around the world mark World Suicide Prevention Day today, 10 September 2026.

This year’s campaign focuses on the power of connection, encouraging people to reach out to others, have safe conversations about suicide and self-harm, and build their confidence and knowledge through the HSE’s award-winning, free online Let’s Talk About Suicide training programme.

This follows the recent publication of Ireland's Strategy to Reduce Suicide and Self-harm: Connecting for Life 2026–2035. The new national strategy sets out a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to reducing suicide and self-harm, with a strong focus on prevention, reducing stigma, improving supports for people in distress, strengthening postvention services, and building the evidence needed to drive effective action.

Sarah Toye, HSE National Clinical Advisor, HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP), said: "Sadly, suicide and self-harm continue to affect individuals, families and communities across Ireland. Importantly, help is available and recovery is possible. No one should feel they have to face difficult times alone. 

“World Suicide Prevention Day reminds us that each of us has a role to play in creating a culture where people feel able to seek help, talk openly and find support when they need it. 

"The publication of Connecting for Life 2026–2035 marks an important milestone in Ireland's response to suicide and self-harm. Connecting for Life recognises that suicide prevention is everyone's business. A central part of this work is empowering people to have safe conversations and recognise when someone may be struggling. 

"The HSE is proud to provide free, accessible online training through Let's Talk About Suicide. In just 60 minutes, participants can gain valuable knowledge and practical skills that can help them feel more confident recognising signs of distress and supporting someone to access help. Whether in your workplace, community, family or circle of friends, taking time to learn these skills can help build a more connected and supportive society. We know that talking, listening and connecting people with support can make a real difference. Every conversation has the potential to help someone feel less alone and more able to access the help they need.” 

World Suicide Prevention Day, held annually each is September is coordinated by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP). The campaign aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourage meaningful conversations about suicide and self-harm. The day highlights the important role that connection, community and early intervention can play in suicide prevention.

The HSE's free online Let's Talk About Suicide training programme supports this work by empowering people to have safe and supportive conversations about suicide and helping them recognise signs of distress in others.

Additional steps to support yourself and others:

1. Reach out and check in – Take time to connect with loved ones and people around you. A simple check-in can bring hope and make a real difference.
2. Be kind, your words matter – Speak with kindness and empathy when talking about suicide. Everyone affected, whether they've lost someone or struggled themselves, deserves dignity and respect.
3. Stay safe online – Share information about suicide or self-harm responsibly and supportively. Help create a safer, more sensitive online space for everyone.
4. Let's Talk About Suicide – Sign up today and build your suicide prevention skills. Learn how to spot signs of distress and support someone who may be struggling.
5. Help is available if you need it – Familiarise yourself with local and national supports and services. Knowing where to turn can make a meaningful difference. Visit yourmentalhealth.ie for information on mental health services and supports, and yourmentalhealth.ie/men for specific free counselling and supports for men.
   

Further suicide prevention training programmes from the HSE are also available. These include safeTALK, ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training), Understanding Self-harm, and Suicide Bereavement Workshops. Find out more about these programmes in your area on the HSE website.