{"id":255,"date":"2025-09-08T09:23:02","date_gmt":"2025-09-08T08:23:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.bath.ac.uk\/pvc-student-experience\/?p=255"},"modified":"2025-09-08T09:23:02","modified_gmt":"2025-09-08T08:23:02","slug":"changing-the-narrative-on-suicide-a-message-for-world-suicide-prevention-day-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.bath.ac.uk\/pvc-student-experience\/2025\/09\/08\/changing-the-narrative-on-suicide-a-message-for-world-suicide-prevention-day-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Changing the Narrative on Suicide - A Message for World Suicide Prevention Day 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/p>\n

On <\/span>10 September, we mark <\/span>World Suicide Prevention Day<\/a> - a global moment to reflect, connect, and act. This year\u2019s theme, <\/span>\u201cChanging the Narrative on Suicide\u201d, calls on us all to challenge stigma, foster open conversations, and build a culture of care and connection.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Suicide is a deeply personal and complex issue, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. The impact is felt across families, workplaces, and communities - including our own here at Bath.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

That\u2019s why our approach to suicide prevention is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and action. As Chair of the University\u2019s Suicide Prevention Working Group, I work closely with colleagues and student representatives to ensure we are taking meaningful, evidence-informed steps to support our community. Our Suicide-Safer Community Action Plan outlines our strategic priorities and annual actions to reduce risk, raise awareness, and strengthen support.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This work reflects our wider commitment to mental health and wellbeing through <\/span>Be Well at Bath<\/span><\/a> - our whole-University approach, which I\u2019m proud to champion at executive level. Wheth<\/span>er you\u2019re a student, a member of staff, or part of our wider community, your wellbeing matters. We all have a role to play in creating a safe, supportive environment where people feel able to speak up and seek help.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This year, the campaign shares five key messages:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Reach Out and Check In<\/span><\/b>
    \n A simple \u201cHow are you?\u201d can make a real difference. Let\u2019s take time to connect with those around us - friends, peers, colleagues.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Your Words Matter<\/span><\/b>
    \n Speak with kindness and empathy. Use\u00a0language like \u201cdied by suicide\u201d or \u201ctook their life\u201d to reduce stigma and respect\u00a0those affected.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Be Safe Online<\/span><\/b>
    \n Share responsibly. Avoid graphic content and always include support resources when discussing sensitive topics.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
  4. Let\u2019s Talk About Suicide<\/span><\/b>
    \n Silence can be harmful. Learn to spot the signs and start the conversation. You don\u2019t need to be an expert to help. Student Support, in collaboration with students, has recently written a new guide: <\/span>    How to support a friend feeling suicidal<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
  5. Know Where to Get Help<\/span><\/b>
    \n Familiarise yourself with support services. Knowing where to turn can save lives.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    We offer a wide range of support for both students and staff, including:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n