World Suicide Prevention Day: Strengthening suicide prevention across Europe
We are happy to share that JA PRISM has been highlighted by the European Commission as an important initiative on the pathway to preventing suicide in the EU in its coverage of World Suicide Prevention Day.
The article highlights the importance of strengthening suicide prevention across Europe and showcases how EU collaboration and the transfer of evidence-based best practices can help address this major public health challenge. We are proud that JA PRISM and the BIZI programme are part of this important work.
Every year, more than 720,000 people worldwide lose their lives to suicide, making suicide a major public health challenge. Among young people, the situation is particularly concerning: suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15–19-year-olds in the EU.
On World Suicide Prevention Day, 10 September, the European Union highlights the importance of strengthening mental health support and suicide prevention across Europe. Through EU4Health and JA PRISM, countries are working together to transfer proven approaches and strengthen mental health systems.
One of the best practices being transferred through JA PRISM is BIZI, an online, free and interactive training programme designed to strengthen suicide prevention. BIZI equips non-health professionals and community members with the skills to recognise suicide risk, provide initial psychological support and guide people towards specialised care.
The programme has already been adapted and implemented in 13 European countries, resulting in 19 versions tailored to different languages, cultures and healthcare systems.
By sharing what works and adapting evidence-based practices to local contexts, JA PRISM is helping countries across Europe strengthen suicide prevention and build more accessible and resilient mental health support.
Read the full article from the European Health and Digital Executive Agency: World Suicide Prevention Day: EU action addressing and preventing suicide
