Preventing suicide in the Western Pacific

10 September 2026 12:00 – 13:30 SGT
Webinar
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Suicide remains a major public health challenge in the World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region, which accounts for nearly one quarter of global suicide deaths.  

The Mental health atlas 2024 underscores persistent gaps in the Region:

  • Mental health budgets remain below 2% of total health spending.
  • Workforce shortages: fewer than 2 psychiatrists per 100 000 population in many countries.
  • Limited integration of mental health into primary health care (PHC). 

WHO’s LIVE LIFE approach provides a practical, evidence-based framework for suicide prevention, focusing on four interventions:

  • Limit access to means of suicide.
  • Interact with media for responsible reporting.
  • Foster life skills in adolescents.
  • Early identification, management and follow-up. 

These are supported by six pillars: situation analysis, multisectoral collaboration, awareness and advocacy, capacity-building, financing, and surveillance. 

In addition, the Regional framework for the future of mental health in the Western Pacific 2023-2030 prioritizes suicide prevention and calls for community engagement, digital innovation, PHC integration, and leadership to accelerate progress. Lived experience voices must also guide policy and service design to reduce stigma and improve care.

Through this webinar, WHO is highlighting regional efforts that demonstrate how leadership, community action and culturally sensitive approaches can help prevent suicide and save lives.

Objectives: 

  • Share regional evidence and priority actions for suicide prevention in the Western Pacific.
  • Highlight country experiences implementing LIVE LIFE and culturally adapted strategies.
  • Empower WHO Member States with actionable steps for scaling interventions and strengthening systems.

The following are welcome to join the webinar:

  • Health policy-makers and programme managers
  • Mental health professionals and PHC providers
  • Community leaders and educators
  • Media representatives
  • Civil society organizations and advocacy groups
Register here