World Suicide Prevention Day
Be Ready for the Conversation that Matters – Call Samaritans on 116 123
Release date: Tuesday 10th September 2024
13 Rivers Trust Call for Suicide Awareness and Compassionate Conversations.
September 10th marks World Suicide Prevention Day. In 2023, more than 7,000 people died by suicide in the UK—that’s 19 lives every day. Among Muslims, the rates are lower, yet around 140 Muslims still die by suicide every year in the UK.
This estimate is based on official ONS data (2011–2021), which shows suicide rates of 5.1 per 100,000 for Muslim men and 2.2 per 100,000 for Muslim women, applied to the UK Muslim population of 3.9 million (2021 Census).
But death is only part of the picture. For every Muslim who takes their life, many more are living in silence with despair – thinking about suicide or even attempting it.
Faith as Protection
The lower suicide rates among Muslims suggest that faith itself can be a shield—giving hope, purpose, and belonging when life feels overwhelming. Belief in Allah, prayer, community, and family ties all help protect lives.
Yet, faith does not make us immune. Even within our community, hundreds of families are directly impacted by suicide every year, and countless more silently struggle. This is why compassion, open conversation, and support remain vital.
“Whoever saves a life, it is as if they saved all of humanity.” (Qur’an 5:32)
Islam and Mental Health
Our deen values both body and mind.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ acknowledged sadness, grief, and anxiety in his du‘ās. Feeling overwhelmed or depressed is not a weakness of imān. Just as we treat physical illness, we must also respond with compassion to mental distress.
Myth vs. Truth
Myth: Talking about suicide may give people ideas.
Truth: Research shows that open, compassionate conversations do not encourage suicide. Instead, they reduce stigma, help people feel less alone, and save lives. The real danger is silence. Do not be judgemental. Shame and silence only deepen despair. Allah is the Most Merciful, and we are called to show mercy in our interactions.
Our Call as a Community
Talking saves lives. Silence costs lives.
For every life lost, many more are at risk. Let us prepare ourselves to listen, to care, and to protect life—for the sake of Allah, and for the sake of humanity.
We stand ready to support individuals and families affected by suicide. Together, let us end the stigma and bring hope back into lives.
Be Ready for the Conversation that Matters
1) Learn how to recognise when someone may be struggling.2
2) Arm yourself with the right words to listen and support.
3) Visit the Samaritans “Have a Conversation” campaign—so you can be prepared to help someone in need.
👉 Visit Samaritans: How to Start a Conversation
https://www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/small-talk-saves-lives/how-to-start-a-conversation/
Call Samaritans
116 123