Suicide experts gather for global summit

International experts on suicide are to gather in Killarney this month for a major five-day summit.

More than 700 delegates, including medics and academics, are expected to attend the biennial International Association of Suicide Prevention (IASP) World Conference.

The theme of the event is ’Preventing Suicide across the Life Span – Dreams and Reality’ and will discuss current best international practices in the field of suicidology.

Irish Association of Suicidology president Dan Neville said the IASP Congress is one of the leading international research meetings on suicide and suicidal behaviour.

The event will focus on suicide and attempted suicide and on the clinical aspects of treatment, prevention and managing the aftermath of suicidal behaviour, the Fine Gael TD added.

“This congress will have a strong emphasis on linking scientific understanding with clinical strategy.

“The full range of experience of those working in the field will be encompassed, whether in research or clinical practice, from all continents and cultures.

“Key academics and medical practitioners have accepted the invitation to present their work in plenary sessions and there will also be parallel sessions of lectures, workshops, and poster presentations.”

The event is an opportunity for representatives of community organisations to obtain information from professionals in the area of suicidology, he added.