Academic gets one of world’s top awards in suicide prevention

The clinical researcher is the first UK winner of the prestigious award in 20 years and only the fourth ever.

In its 50^th year, the award was given by the Association for his "leadership, devotion and creativity".

He said: “I’m absolutely thrilled that our work has been recognised in this way. As a clinical academic it’s a privilege to be working in an area where you have an opportunity to do real world research that impacts on health services and people’s lives.

“I would like to thank AAS, my mentors, my colleagues, and of course my family.”

The American Association of Suicidology is the world’s largest membership-based suicide prevention organization.

Founded in 1968 by Dr Edwin S. Shneidman, it promotes the research of suicide and its prevention, public awareness programs, public education and training for professionals and volunteers.

Membership of AAS includes mental health and public health professionals, researchers, suicide prevention and crisis intervention centers, school districts, crisis center professionals, survivors of suicide loss, attempt survivors, and a variety of laypersons who have in interest in suicide prevention.

Professor Nav Kapur said: I’m absolutely thrilled that our work has been recognised in this way. As a clinical academic it’s a privilege to be working in an area where you have an opportunity to do real world research that impacts on health services and people’s lives. I would like to thank AAS, my mentors, my colleagues, and of course my family."