The Public Health Agency and several national partners have launched a prioritisation guide for municipalities, regions and others working on suicide prevention. It is designed to help organisations select measures that reach groups with the greatest need. The latest statistics report 1,220 suicides in Sweden in 2025, nine fewer than the year before.
What happened?
The guide was launched on World Suicide Prevention Day, 10 September. It was developed by the National Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention, NASP, together with the national coordinator in the Government Offices, the National Board of Health and Welfare, the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions, and the Public Health Agency.
It is aimed at organisations planning and allocating resources for prevention. It connects to target six of Sweden's national mental-health and suicide-prevention strategy, which emphasises stronger support for people at risk.
Location
Sverige
Impact and significance
The latest updated statistics record 1,220 deaths by suicide in 2025, nine fewer than in 2024. The number fell among children and young women aged 15–29, but the agency stresses that it is too early to know whether this is a lasting trend. A one-year decrease should not be presented as the problem having been solved.
The guide seeks to translate knowledge into resource decisions. Its impact will depend on how local and regional organisations use the recommendations and evaluate their measures.
Background
The Public Health Agency has also established a new national unit to analyse and investigate suicide cases, particularly among children and young people up to age 18. This is a structural prevention function, not an individual emergency helpline.
World Suicide Prevention Day was established by WHO. This year's Swedish theme is 'From knowledge to action – together we make a difference', reflecting the emphasis on practical application and cooperation.
Latest update
The guide was formally presented in a webinar and is available through the link published by the agency. Organisations can now use it in planning, while future evaluation must show what priorities are made and whether more at-risk groups are reached. Anyone in immediate danger should contact 112 or emergency healthcare rather than rely on a planning guide.
Sources
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Reviewed: 2026-09-11. Independent editorial content. WUA Sverige is not affiliated with any political party.