Your Student Life: World Suicide Prevention Day

August 25, 2026

Did you know that suicide is the second-leading cause of death for teens and young adults, ages 10-34? It’s why our culture of care at Ohio State is so important, and why I want you to be aware of World Suicide Prevention Day.  

World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10, established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention with the World Health Organization (WHO). The purpose is to raise awareness around the globe that suicide can be prevented and is a call to action that encourages everyone to help reduce stigma around suicide and mental health.  

This theme also emphasizes the need to prioritize suicide prevention and mental health in policy making, advocating for an increase in access to care and providing support for those in need.  

You play a role in suicide prevention as well. This is a responsibility shared by all of us, and we can create a campus community where we shift from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding and support.   
  
One way you can contribute to our culture of care is by learning the risks, warning signs and how to intervene. The Suicide Prevention Program offers REACH© training to any interested students, faculty and staff, as well as group training. REACH stands for  

Recognize warning signs  
Engage with empathy  
Ask directly about suicide  
Communicate hope  
Help suicidal individuals access care and treatment  

 
Visit go.osu.edu/REACH to learn more.   

Already certified in REACH? Want to boost your skills even more? Visit go.osu.edu/REACH2-0 to register for a REACH 2.0 session. 

There are other resources available on campus and in the community for immediate assistance. Call/text/chat 988, text “HOPE” to 741741, or call 911 for 24-hour support. Ohio State’s Counseling and Consultation Service can be reached at 614-292-5766 or ccs.osu.edu.   

If you’d like to support World Suicide Prevention Day, consider signing up to volunteer with SPP at various events happening around campus the week of Sept. 6 and on Sept. 10. Ohio State University Suicide Prevention Program: World Suicide Prevention Day - September 10, 2026. At garages and bus stops you’ll be greeted by digital messaging and swag, and your food and Dining Rover orders will be stickered and contain notes of encouragement (and maybe even a surprise T-shirt!). Buckeye Paws dogs will be passing out swag at Ohio Stadium and at other academic and medical campus spots – stop to take a selfie! You’ll notice posted messaging in facilities across campus. 

As Buckeyes, we care.  

Laura Lewis  
  
Assistant Director  
Suicide Prevention Program  
Office of Student Life