Your story is not over.

Information article on World Suicide Prevention Day, 10 September 2026.

This story is not over: Why suicide prevention concerns us all.

In Germany, someone takes their own life every 51 minutes and approximately every five minutes a suicide attempt occurs. These are figures that alarm us and yet are rarely discussed. On 10 September, World Suicide Prevention Day, attention is drawn to an issue that affects all age groups and social classes. The aim is to raise awareness, break taboos and make help more visible.

The dimensions of a silent crisis In 2024, 10,372 people died in Germany as a result of suicide. That is significantly more deaths than from traffic accidents, violent crime, illegal drugs and AIDS combined. Suicide risk increases significantly with advancing age, and the average age of those who died is around 62 years. However, young people are also affected, as suicide attempts are particularly common in their age group, especially among young women.

Suicide is not a marginal issue, but affects people of all ages and social classes. Nevertheless, suicide in the public sphere is often viewed only as an individual tragedy, not as a societal challenge. However, experts agree that a large proportion of deaths are preventable. The most important preventive measure is both simple and demanding: talking about it and making help accessible. Taboos and risk factors

For a long time, suicide was considered a taboo subject and the silence has consequences: those affected often feel alone with their thoughts and their peers are uncertain whether and how to broach the subject. The general public also lacks basic knowledge about warning signs, risk factors and help options. Suicidality usually does not arise suddenly. Often it is preceded by a long period of suffering. People with mental illnesses, such as depression or addictive behaviour, are particularly at risk. People who have already attempted suicide also carry an increased risk. The same applies to older people who suffer from loneliness or serious chronic illnesses. However, young adults are also at risk, particularly if they are in developmental or

relationship crises. Recognising and addressing suicidality Suicidal people often show warning signs: these include social withdrawal from friends and family or a marked deterioration in mental state. There may also be effects on mood, sleep or behaviour. Those affected often express their suicidal thoughts directly or hint at them covertly. Other warning signs such as a changed appearance or habits can also be significant, even if they may only be subtle. This is why mindfulness is required. Experts emphasise that relatives should not shy away from addressing those affected if they suspect something is wrong, as a conversation can often be relieving. Peers should speak from their own perception and refer to concrete help options. However, it is important that relatives do not overstep their own boundaries and seek professional help if necessary.

Suicide and suicide attempts are not an expression of free choice.

They usually arise from severe psychological, social or physical distress.

True prevention means acknowledging this situation and not leaving those affected alone.

World Suicide Prevention Day reminds us that behind every figure stands a person with a story that can continue.