International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day is celebrated on November 19th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you may want to know about International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day.

📅 What day is International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day 2024?

In 2024, International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day is on Sunday, November 19th. It is the 3rd Sunday in November; in 2024, it is Tuesday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the exciting details and facts about November 19, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day is a special day that takes place in November, just before Thanksgiving. It serves as a reminder to come together and show support to those who have experienced the loss of a loved one to suicide. When someone takes their own life, it deeply impacts the people who knew and cared for them. Coping with the aftermath of such a tragedy can be incredibly challenging. This day is dedicated to offering love and support to those who have survived the loss of a loved one to suicide.

📜 International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day History

During the medieval era, Western culture attempted to address suicide by implementing canon law and criminal law. However, these efforts had limited success in reducing suicide rates. In European countries, the criminal penalties for attempted suicide were abolished during the French Revolution in 1789, but England did not follow suit until 1961.

Between 1950 and 1980, adult suicide rates in the United States remained relatively stable, but there was a significant increase in suicide rates among young people. White males aged 15 to 19 saw a 305% rise, while those aged 20 to 24 experienced a 196% increase. Mental health officials had to expand their understanding of the factors contributing to suicide, including drug and alcohol use, mental illness, suicide clusters, and access to firearms.

In 1999, US Senator Harry Reid introduced a resolution that led to the establishment of International Suicide Survivors Day. This cause was personal to Reid, as his father had taken his own life in 1972. The resolution was passed by Congress and the day was scheduled for the week before Thanksgiving, recognizing that the holiday season can be challenging for survivors. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention continues to support Survivors Day activities and promote peace worldwide.

✅ International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day Facts

🔖 Close to home
Almost half of the American population had personal connections with someone who took their own life.

🔖 LGBT community
The likelihood of suicide attempts among LGBT teenagers is almost five times higher compared to their heterosexual counterparts.

🔖 Global suicides
Annually, more than 800,000 people take their own lives.

👍 Why Is International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day Important

Because of the nature of suicide, dealing with the death of a loved one can be more difficult. Survivors Day encourages you to recall the positive moments you shared with them rather than the manner in which they died. Keeping pleasant memories is a healthy coping method that allows us to respect them without feeling guilty.
When someone commits suicide, it impacts everyone in their community. Friends, family, coworkers, and others must sift through their emotions in order to comprehend their own. On Survivors Day, we take a moment to reflect on the services available to assist survivors.
It might be difficult to see beyond our own grief, which causes emotions of isolation and despair. Suicide still has a significant societal taboo, and it might feel impossible to seek out. On this day, we are reminded that this is a worldwide issue and that we are not alone.

🙂 How To Observe International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day

⚡ Attend a local grief support group

⚡ Attend a Survivors Day event
UHS organizes events called Survivors Day, where individuals can come together and express their experiences of healing and optimism. These gatherings may include the screening of films and documentaries that explore how to cope with suicide after experiencing a loss. They cover all the difficult stages of denial, isolation, grieving, and provide strategies to overcome the pain. If you cannot attend in person, you can watch the program online at www.afsp.org/SurvivorDay.

⚡ Write it out
It might be frightening to talk about your own experience in front of a bunch of strangers, but support groups provide a safe setting for you to connect with others who have been impacted by suicide. It’s a place of understanding as people deal with the difficulties of living with it. You’ll have the chance to talk to and learn from experts who can help you get through your own problems.

📅 When is International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day?

See all 🔗 November holidays, including 🔗 Cause and other 🔗 Mental Health holidays.

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