Changing the narrative on suicide

On 10 September, ESICM joins the global community in marking World Suicide Prevention Day, a worldwide initiative established by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in partnership with the World Health Organization.

This year marks the final year of the triennial theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” with its powerful call to action: Start the Conversation. With more than 720,000 lives lost to suicide every year, this day reminds us that behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a community profoundly affected.

As intensive care professionals, we are no strangers to the emotional weight of our work. The demands of intensive care — long hours, moral distress, loss, and the relentless pressure of high-stakes decision-making — can take a significant toll on mental health. Burnout, compassion fatigue, and psychological distress are realities that affect our community, yet too often remain unspoken.

Changing the narrative means challenging the stigma that surrounds mental health in healthcare, fostering open and compassionate conversations, and creating environments where colleagues feel safe to speak up and seek support. It also means recognising that caring for those who care for others is not a sign of weakness — it is a necessity.

ESICM is committed to supporting the wellbeing of the intensive care community. Through our educational programmes, our work on sustainable ICU practices, and our advocacy for healthier working environments, we strive to ensure that the people at the heart of intensive care are not forgotten.

On this World Suicide Prevention Day, we encourage every member of our community to start the conversation — with a colleague, a friend, or a loved one. Every conversation, no matter how small, contributes to a more supportive and understanding environment.

Because in a profession dedicated to saving lives, looking after each other matters just as much.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to local support services or crisis helplines in your country.