Content warning: this post discusses suicide and mental health.

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is an important day for many reasons, but it can also be a challenging one, especially if you’re an LGBTQ+ person who has faced your own mental health struggles, or have been impacted by the loss of someone to suicide. If this time of year brings up difficult emotions, it’s essential to prioritise your wellbeing and take steps to care for yourself. 

Here are seven practical ways to look after yourself this WSPD:

---

1. Feel your feelings

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, sad, or anxious on WSPD, the first thing you need to know is that it’s perfectly normal, and your feelings are valid. It’s also important not to slap on a mask and pretend you’re fine. Acknowledge what you’re experiencing and give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up. Journalling or talking about your emotions with someone you trust can be a helpful way to process them.

Tip: If you're not ready to talk about it, that's okay too. Just being honest with yourself is a positive and crucial step.

2. Limit your exposure to triggers 

There will be a lot of content about suicide and mental health on social media around this time, and yes, while it’s important to raise awareness, constantly exposing yourself to suicide-related content can be triggering or overwhelming, especially if you’ve been personally affected by suicide. If that’s happening for you, step back from social media and think about ways to limit your news consumption. 

Tip: Mute certain words or hashtags, or take a total break from social media if you notice your mental health is being affected.

3. Use your support network

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, WSPD might make you want to isolate yourself till it’s over.  And that’s understandable. But isolation isn’t healthy. Connection is the antidote to isolation, so reaching out to friends, family, or a supportive community can help ease that loneliness or urge to shut yourself away. Whether it’s a close friend, a peer or colleague in the LGBTQ+ community, or even in an online group, surrounding yourself with people who understand and care about you can provide comfort.

Tip: If you don’t feel comfortable talking about your emotions, just spending time with people who can lift your mood or at least distract you can make a difference.

4. Make your boundaries clear

You don’t have to take part in every conversation about suicide or mental health, especially if it feels emotionally draining or triggering. Setting boundaries—whether with friends, family, or on social media—about how much you want to engage with these discussions is completely valid.

Tip: Practice saying, “I’m not in the right headspace to talk about this right now.  I appreciate your understanding.”

5. Practice self-compassion

Humans in general are pretty good at beating themselves up for no reason, but a lot of us LGBTQ+ folks struggle with internalised guilt, shame, or self-criticism, especially when reflecting on past experiences with mental health or suicide. If that sounds like you, try to practice self-compassion this WSPD (because the more you practice something, the better you become at it). Be kind; remind yourself that you’re doing your best, even on difficult days.  

Tip: If you catch yourself being overly critical, ask yourself, “What would I say to a friend who is feeling like this?”

6. Give yourself a (literal) break 

When things feel heavy, it’s important to carve out some time for self-care. Do whatever it is that helps you unwind: run a bath with candles, watch your favourite comfort movie, meditate, go for a walk, or just order your favourite takeaway. Even a small act of self-care can have a big impact on your mental wellbeing and prevent burnout.

Tip: Consider setting up reminders on your phone to take short mental health breaks throughout the day.

7. Speak to a professional 

First things first: reaching out for professional support is a sign of strength, not weakness. So if this time of year feels too overwhelming to manage on your own, don’t hesitate to seek help. Whether it’s a therapist, counsellor, or a helpline, there are LGBTQ+ friendly mental health resources available that understand the specific challenges you face.

Tip: LGBT HERO’s suicide prevention hub offers resources tailored for the LGBTQ+ community. You don’t have to go through this alone.

Final thoughts: Little steps make a big difference

World Suicide Prevention Day is a tough day for a lot of LGBTQ+ folks, but taking small, manageable steps can help you protect your mental health. Whether it’s setting boundaries, practising self-compassion, or seeking support, remember: you are not alone, your feelings are valid, and you deserve kindness and support, today—and every day.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. There are people who care and resources available to support you.