Forum: Everyday actions by each of us can help prevent suicides
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The theme of 2025’s World Suicide Prevention Day, marked on Sept 10, is “Changing the narrative on suicide”, which urges us to break harmful myths, reduce stigma, and foster open, compassionate conversations.
The urgency in Singapore is clear. In 2024, 314 lives were lost to suicide ( 314 suicides reported in Singapore in 2024, remains leading cause of youth deaths,
While this is fewer than the 434 the year before, suicide continues to be the leading cause of death for those aged 10 to 29 for the sixth consecutive year. There has also been a worrying rise among adults aged 30 to 39.
These numbers are not just statistics – they are sons, daughters, colleagues and friends whose stories ended too soon. Behind every number are families grieving and communities searching for hope. On the ground, new and persistent triggers continue to surface.
Bullying and vaping are fast becoming silent epidemics in Singapore.
Bullying, whether online or in schools, can leave young people isolated and humiliated, with no safe space to turn to. Vaping is not only a health risk but also a coping mechanism masking deeper struggles such as stress, anxiety or loneliness.
Government and community efforts have stepped up, but we can, and must, do more. Suicide prevention is not just about programmes or policies; it is about the everyday actions each of us can take. Small acts of compassion can make a profound difference. You don’t need to be an expert – you only need to show up.
In a month’s time, we will mark World Mental Health Day. It is a complex yet necessary reminder that suicide prevention cannot be separated from the wider fight for mental well-being.
Every day is a prevention day. Gatekeeping lives means caring for those around us.
Be present. Be ready. Take time to reach out.
Delane Lim
Singapore National Representative
International Association for Suicide Prevention
