According to WHO, suicide is the second-leading cause of death among those 15–29 years old making it is a global issue, with more than 79 percent of suicides occurring in low and middle-income countries - of which India is a part.

The trend is that in around 70 countries educational and commemorative events, press briefings and conferences, as well as Facebook and Twitter coverage get organized on this day.

The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) - founded by Erwin Ringel and Norman Farberow in 1960 and in an official relationship with the World Health Organization - is dedicated to preventing suicidal behaviour and providing a forum for mental health professionals, crisis workers, suicide survivors and other people in one way or another affected by suicidal behaviour. The organization now consists of professionals and volunteers from over 50 countries worldwide.

This year the World Suicide Prevention Day which was first observed in 2003, was observed with theme "Working Together to Prevent Suicide" to raise awareness regarding the conditions that lead to 800,000 annual deaths as per the WHO. 

In their release, the IASP urged, "We all have a role to play and together we can collectively address the challenges presented by suicidal behaviour in society."

We need to eliminate the causes of suicide and be constantly awre of the 'warning signs for suicide, show compassion and care for those who are in distress' and 'question the stigma associated with suicide, suicidal behaviour and mental health problems'; informed IASP.