National policy involves laws, regulations, and government strategies and programmes that guide how society operates. Some of the key aspects include:

National suicide prevention strategies

National policies, such as the National Suicide Prevention Strategy, provide direction for funding and activities focused on reducing suicide rates.

​​Integration of suicide prevention into public services

Policies that incorporate suicide prevention into healthcare, education, and criminal justice systems help establish early intervention pathways. This includes training for primary care providers, educators, and law enforcement to recognise warning signs and take appropriate action.​​​​​​​

Economic and social support systems

Policies can help create and maintain economic and social equality. Financial insecurity and lack of resources can increase suicide risk. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Having strong social safety nets (for example unemployment benefits, housing assistance, food security programmes, and family leave policies), helps provide stability and reduce the stress associated with financial hardship. Economic stability allows us to focus on thriving rather than survival.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Legal protections

By having laws and policies that protect marginalised groups (for example, LGBTQIA+ individuals, racial minorities, and those with disabilities) from discrimination and harassment we create safer, more inclusive society. Legal protections reduce stress, enhance self-worth, and mitigate the effects of prejudice and social exclusion.

Funding and how healthcare systems are structured is often informed by national policy. A well-structured healthcare system supports timely access to health, wellbeing and mental health services and resources.

Here are some of the ways healthcare systems can support suicide prevention:

Ensure funding and accessibility of healthcare services and resources

Our physical and mental health are not exclusive. Both can impact the other. Having access to timely support for physical and/or mental health needs, can help prevent conditions from worsening and further contributing to any pain and/or mental distress.

When mental healthcare is funded and treated with the same importance as physical healthcare (parity of esteem), it helps reduce stigma (read about suicide and stigma). It helps normalise mental health as a part of overall health.

Crisis intervention and support helplines

Having immediate, timely support available offers us guidance and resources when we’re experiencing intense emotional distress and at high risk of suicide. Having someone to guide us can helps us to de-escalate our emotions and regain control of our feelings.

Non-judgemental, compassionate support can help us feel less alone and help provide us with coping strategies.

Support research and data collection

Supporting research on suicide prevention helps identify effective strategies and resources, while data collection improves our understanding of suicide patterns and risk factors.

The more we understand about suicide the more targeted suicide prevention efforts can be.

Training for professionals

Offering training for healthcare providers, first responders, and educators enables them to identify early warning signs of mental health struggles and provide timely support.

Media (television, news outlets, social media, and film) shapes societal attitudes, values, and behaviours by influencing public perception and setting norms.

It plays a significant role in how people view issues like mental health, violence, social justice, and cultural values. Because media has a broad reach, it’s a key societal factor in shaping beliefs and aiding understanding.

It can support suicide prevention though:

Responsible reporting

Media should avoid sensationalising (or simplifying) and encourage sensitive, accurate reporting of suicide, providing resources for help.

Awareness raising

Positive portrayals and discussions of mental health can reduce stigma and inspire people to seek support.

Sharing mental health resources

The media can encourage individuals to reach out for support by regularly highlighting resources for those struggling with suicidal thoughts.

Find out more about the role the media can play in supporting suicide awareness and prevention.

Education systems are influenced by national standards and government policies.

Educational institutions are pivotal in shaping societal values, norms, and attitudes. Schools and universities not only provide academic learning but also play a key role in fostering social and emotional development.

Mental health education in schools

By integrating mental health education into school curriculums, we can help students understand the importance of mental wellbeing, learn how to seek help, and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.

Training educators

Teachers and school staff who are trained to recognise signs of distress and know how to provide support can act as critical points of contact for at-risk students.

Promoting safe and supportive environments

Educational systems that prioritise safety, inclusion, and mental health support help create an environment where students feel valued and less likely to experience isolation or hopelessness.