The month of September—known as “Yellow September” and marked by the International Day of Suicide Prevention, which takes place every year on September 10—is an opportunity to discuss a topic that remains far too taboo in our society: suicide.

By increasing awareness and dispelling myths, we can help reduce the number of suicides.

Raising awareness and talking about it is already a form of prevention. This is especially true when it comes to suicide, which can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, background, occupation, etc.

3114, the national suicide prevention hotline

What is 3114?

3114 is the national suicide prevention hotline. It is toll-free, staffed by professionals,
and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. On the other end of the line are specially trained healthcare professionals, such as psychologists and nurses. There are currently 18 call centers located throughout the country to provide professional support to the entire population, both in mainland France and in the overseas territories.

Who is the 3114 intended for?

3114 is a helpline for everyone:
• For people who are suffering or having suicidal thoughts
• For loved ones concerned about a family member or someone in distress
• For people who are grieving or have been affected by a suicide
• For professionals working with someone who is suffering or seeking
information about suicide and its prevention

How does the phone call go?

During the call, which is confidential but not anonymous—professionals support the person in distress by carrying out several tasks:
• Actively listening, without judgment, with compassion, and asking the right questions
• Assessing the risk of suicide
• Referring the person to the appropriate resource(s)
• Intervening to help de-escalate emotional distress, offering advice, mobilizing the person’s support network, seeking solutions, etc. And, depending on the risk of suicide, calling emergency services to ensure the person’s safety

Since it opened on October 1, 2021, 3114 has handled more than 800,000 calls.

3114: Much More Than Just a Number

Each 3114 center works in collaboration with all the services, partners
(social, medical-social, and nonprofit organizations), and referral providers in its region. This regional network makes it possible to best direct callers to the resource most suited to their situation and located near where they live.