 In countries where that experience can be compounded through criminalisation, public beatings and long-term stigma, that fear is much greater. People who try to take their own lives need compassion. The World Health Organisation says decriminalisation in several countries is a huge step forward. But changing the law is only part of the process. It's going to take much longer to alter some deep-rooted beliefs. But where compassionate intervention does succeed, the rewards are overwhelming.