One in every 100 deaths worldwide is the result of suicide. And some 700,000 people around the world die by suicide every year; for every one person who dies, it is estimated that 20 more have attempted to take their own lives.

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10): many countries have reduced the number of deaths by suicide by working to make mental health support more readily available for those who need it. Yet in some 20 countries, suicide and suicidal behavior remain a criminal offense and individuals who attempt to take their own lives risk severe penalties for themselves and even their families.

Punishments vary, with penalties ranging from 1-3 years imprisonment, and fines of thousands of US dollars. In some countries, it is even possible to be punished after death. In the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Guyana, and Kenya, the will of the deceased may be challenged and potentially invalidated if the person is judged to have died by suicide. In others, such as Nigeria, the legislation allows for children as young as 7 years old to be arrested, tried, and prosecuted.

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