The World Health Organisation marks World Mental Health Day on 10th October each year. The theme for this year, which is set by the World Federation for Mental Health focuses on suicide prevention. In the UK, Samaritans publish information about suicide facts and figureshttps: //www.samaritans.org/about-samaritans/research-policy/suicide-facts-and-figures/
These are difficult statistics to read but no matter how difficult ones that we must acknowledge, talk about and address:
Total number of suicides
In the UK & Republic of Ireland, there were 6,859 suicides in 2018. In the UK, there were 6,507 suicides. In the Republic of Ireland, there were 352 suicides.
UK: an increase in the overall suicide rate
Deaths by suicide rose by 11.8% in the UK in 2018.
Suicide rates for men and women
In the UK, men are three times as likely to die by suicide than women. In the Republic of Ireland, the rate is four times higher among men than women.
Suicide rates by age and gender
In the UK, the highest suicide rate is among men aged 45-49. In the Republic of Ireland, the highest rate is among men aged 55-65.
UK: rising suicide rates in under-25s
The rate of deaths among under 25s increased by 23.7%, reaching 730 deaths in 2018.
UK: rising suicide rates in middle-aged men
Men aged 45-49 still have the highest rate of suicides. The suicide rate increased for this group in 2018.
Talking about problems can save lives whether that is calling Samaritans or one of the many other help-lines available or taking the first step to speak to a professional such as a psychotherapist.
You can call Samaritans any time, day or night, seven days a week on 116 123
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
