Mental health

Suicide prevention

Magnitude of the problem

Suicide is among the top 20 leading causes of death globally for all ages. Every year, nearly one million people die from suicide.

Risk factors

Mental illness, primarily depression and alcohol use disorders, abuse, violence, loss, cultural and social background, represent major risk factors for suicide.

Prevention

Restriction of access to means of suicide, such as toxic substances and firearms, identification and management of persons suffering from mental and substance use disorders, improved access to health and social services, and responsible reporting of suicide by the media are effective strategies for the prevention of suicide.

Special programmes

Latest publications

Public health action for the prevention of suicide

To assist governments in developing and implementing strategies for the prevention of suicide

WHO QualityRights Tool Kit

WHO QualityRights tool kit to improve quality and human rights in mental health facilities

Dementia: a public health priority

Raising awareness of dementia as a public health priority

WHO MIND Project