Suicide prevention can be complicated, as there are many risk factors, and physical, environmental, and social factors interact. The background and reason behind each suicide differ, as each individual's story is unique. Social situations, sudden trauma, losses or long-term stress, personality traits that may be characterised by anger and impulsivity, excessive alcohol and drug use, depression, and/or extreme anxiety and distress can play a role.
Cooperation is a fundamental factor in suicide prevention, and success is best achieved through the participation of the entire society. Establishing networks, fostering research collaboration, and creating knowledge with other countries contribute to long-term success.
Yellow September is a cooperative project between institutions and non-governmental organisations working together on mental health and suicide prevention
Iceland participates in Nordic collaboration on mental health and suicide prevention, through the Nordic Council of Ministers.
JA IMPLEMENTAL is a European research project funded by the H2020 framework program (JA-02-2020/HADEA). Around twenty European countries participated in the project. Iceland's representatives came from the Ministry of Health and the Directorate of Health.
The project lasted between 2021 and 2024. The project was extensive, but Iceland participated in the part related to implementing knowledge in suicide prevention based on the Austrian prevention model "SUPRA".
The Directorate of Health is a member of the IASP association. World Suicide Prevention Day is the 10th of September each year. The day aims to work on suicide prevention, support relatives, and celebrate the memory of those who have died by suicide. In Iceland, representatives of the following institutions and NGOs are working on World Suicide Prevention Day: The Directorate of Health, Geðhjálp, Health Care of the Capital Region, Landspítali – BUGL, Landspítali – the psychiatric ward, Lífsbrú - Centre for Suicide Prevention, Orri Ómarsson Memorial Fund, the Pieta Association, SÁÁ, the Red Cross, Sorgarmiðstöðin, the Icelandic Church, Development center for healthcare.
