Changing the Narrative on Suicide: Start the Conversation
On World Suicide Prevention Day, the Ministry of Health is reaffirming its commitment to suicide prevention and mental health promotion by encouraging Bermuda to start the conversation, reduce stigma, strengthen connections and ensure people know where to turn for support. Observed annually on September 10, World Suicide Prevention Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness, remember those lost to suicide, support families and communities affected, and encourage collective action to prevent suicide and promote mental wellbeing.
The World Health Organization (WHO) theme for 2024–2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” with the call to action “Start the Conversation.” The campaign encourages communities to move from silence and stigma toward openness, compassion and action, while strengthening mental health support and suicide prevention efforts.
Minister of Health, Kim Wilson, JP, MP, said: “For Bermuda, this message is particularly important. The Ministry of Health reports that Bermuda loses an average of three to five lives to suicide each year. Suicide prevention therefore requires more than crisis response. It requires a comprehensive approach that includes mental health promotion, early identification, reduced stigma, accessible services and strong community support.
“Bermuda is putting this approach into action through several initiatives aimed at strengthening prevention and promoting earlier intervention.”
These include #ChatSafe Bermuda, developed in collaboration with Bermuda College, Dr. Daniel Cavanagh and Orygen Australia, which promotes safer online conversations about suicide, self-harm and mental health.
The Ministry is also collaborating with Chardonaé Rawlins of Simply Bloom Bermuda on a Digital Wellness Guide to help families navigate the digital environment safely and support the mental wellbeing of young people.
Through the Ministry’s Mental Health Anti-Stigma Month and Youth Mental Health Training Programme, communities, educators and other trusted adults are being equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognise concerns, start conversations and connect individuals with appropriate support.
More than 10 Lived Experience Champions have also been trained. By sharing their experiences, these Champions help reduce stigma, promote hope and ensure that Bermuda’s suicide-prevention efforts reflect real-life experiences.
As Bermuda marks World Suicide Prevention Day, the Ministry of Health is encouraging everyone to consider how they can help change the narrative around suicide.
Minister Wilson added: “Changing the narrative means replacing silence with conversation, judgement with compassion and stigma with understanding. Starting a conversation can create connection, open the door to support and, ultimately, save lives. Every conversation matters. Every connection matters. Every life matters.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. For immediate support, contact the Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute Crisis Services at 239-1111 or call 911 in an emergency.
