The Bahamas, officially known as the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, is located in the Atlantic Ocean at the crossroads of the Americas. It's home to a rich tapestry of ethnic groups, including African, European and Indigenous Bahamians, and a significant community of Asians. The country boasts a vibrant culture, with colourful Junkanoo street parades celebrating West African traditions and European colonial legacies.

The Bahamas are predominantly Christian, with Baptists, Anglicans, and Catholics being the largest congregations. There's also a significant presence of Bahá'í Faith, Islam, and Judaism intermingled with various Indigenous belief systems. This mix of cultures and faiths contributes to the country's colourful identity, which celebrates religious tolerance and diversity.

Like many nations, The Bahamas inherited colonial-era laws in which suicide is still a criminal offence. Chapter 84 s. 294 in the Penal Code (Bahamas) lists attempted suicide as a misdemeanour with a punishment of up to two years imprisonment for those convicted.

The World Health Organization (WHO) advocates for the decriminalisation of suicide and suicide attempts. Finding out more and removing such laws removes stigma and allows avenues for providing appropriate mental health support to individuals in crisis.

Criminalising suicide punishes distress. Decriminalising suicide saves lives.