Published on:11 August 2026
World Suicide Prevention Day 2026 - ZSA online events
Every year, World Suicide Prevention Day reminds us that each of us has a role in creating safer, more supportive communities. This year, we’re focusing on a simple but powerful truth: talking can save lives.
We’re hosting two linked online sessions on Thursday 10 September:
- 10 to 11.30am - Webinar: Building a supportive narrative around suicide
- 1 to 2.30pm - Virtual training: Suicide awareness and supportive conversations
Across these sessions, we’ll explore how the way we talk about suicide shapes understanding, reduces stigma, and encourages people to seek help and we’ll build practical confidence in having supportive conversations.
Both sessions will include a live Q&A, giving you space to ask questions, explore real‑world challenges, and build confidence in supportive communication. You’re welcome to join one or both.
Whether you’re a professional, volunteer, community member, or someone who wants to feel more equipped to support others, you’re welcome.
Overview
Morning session (10 to 11.30am)
Webinar: Building a supportive narrative around suicide
Our morning webinar explores how suicide is understood and discussed across history, culture, media, education, and everyday language. We’ll look at how stigma develops, how misconceptions take hold, and how compassionate, non‑judgemental conversations can make a real difference.
We’ll be looking at:
- Narrative and language: how culture and communication shape attitudes toward suicide
- Myths: why talking about suicide does not increase risk
- Help‑seeking barriers: how stigma and silence affect help‑seeking
- Challenging misconceptions: safe, sensitive ways to address misunderstandings
- Building supportive narratives: practical ways to strengthen supportive communication in your community or workplace
This session sets the foundation for the afternoon training, or you can choose to take one of our free online training courses.
Afternoon session (1 to 2.30pm)
Training: suicide awareness and supportive conversations
Our afternoon training focuses on practical skills. We’ll share more about recognising when someone might be struggling, how to create space for safe conversation, and how to respond in a supportive, confident, and compassionate way.
We’ll be looking at:
- Spotting signs: recognising when someone may be experiencing suicidal thoughts
- Supportive conversations: how to start and hold safe, supportive conversations
- Helpful language: what to say and things to avoid
- Encouraging help‑seeking: ways to connect someone to support
- Self‑care: looking after yourself when supporting others
To help demonstrate putting these skills into practice, the training includes two scenarios that demonstrate how the guidance can be applied in real‑world situations - one exploring the impact of gambling harms, and another set within a community sports club.
This session is suitable for anyone who wants to feel more confident talking about suicide and supporting people who may be struggling.
Why this matters…
Stigma, silence, and fear stop people from reaching out. Compassionate, confident conversations help people feel seen, heard, and supported.
Talking can save lives and together, we can help change the narrative.
Register
Choose the session that suits you or join both...
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Last modified: 12 August 2026