Changing the narrative on suicide

Every year, more than 720,000 people die by suicide, leaving families, friends, healthcare teams, and many people deeply affected. For those of us working in the intensive care units, the impact is twofold: we often care for patients following suicide attempts, and at the same time, our own community of healthcare professionals faces high levels of stress and burnout, increasing vulnerability to mental health struggles.

On 10 September 2025, ESICM joins the global community in marking World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD). Created by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in partnership with the WHO, this day brings together individuals, organisations, and institutions to take action on suicide prevention.

The current theme for 2024–2026, Changing the Narrative on Suicide, calls for a shift from silence and stigma to openness, empathy, and support. It encourages us to engage in open and honest discussions about suicide and suicidal behaviours. This includes:

• Challenging harmful myths and reducing stigma in healthcare and society.
• Promoting compassionate conversations in workplaces and communities.
• Advocating for systemic change to ensure better access to mental health support.

In the ICU, mental health is inextricably linked to patient outcomes and the well-being of healthcare professionals. By raising awareness and supporting evidence-based prevention strategies, ESICM is committed to contributing to this global effort.

Every chat, no matter how small, builds a more supportive and understanding society. Together, we can make a difference and prioritise suicide prevention, ensuring everyone gets the help they need.