Suicide is death caused by a person intentionally taking their own life.

6,211,deaths by suicide were registered in the UK in 2020.

Due to the way statistics are gathered, this number does not reflect all of the suicides. Additionally, it is believed significant numbers due to the COVID pandemic were not captured in this statistic. So, the true number is likely to be much higher.

We will use this number (6,211) to reflect on, even if it is artificially low.

• That equates to an average of 120 suicides each week.
• This means 17 people everyday commit suicide in the UK.

Suicide usually has a very strong impact on the friends and family of the person who has taken their own life. When this is taken into consideration, it means that millions of people every year are affected by suicide.

What puts people at risk of suicide?

See the following cards....

Previous suicide attempts or previous self harm can put people at higher risk of suicide.

Most people who self harm do not want to die. Research shows that people who self harm are at higher risk of attempting suicide or dying due to suicide.

What else can you do to help?

If you know anyone who lives alone or has little social contact with other people, spend some time with them.

Encourage them to take up a hobby, particularly one that involves interacting with other people. Talk to people you know about mental health in a positive sense. This normalises these conversations and makes it easier for people to talk when they are experiencing mental health problems.

In this video (6:43) from Hertfordshire Suicide Prevention Network, Helen shares her remarkable story about her experiences following the suicide of her partner.

She talks about her negative experiences around language used and how she has been rebuilding her life. Be prepared – I needed a few tissues for this one.

What if someone tells you about their suicidal thoughts and feelings?

Most importantly, just listen.

Respond with open questions. Avoid giving advice or opinions. You do not have to solve their problems. Offer support and encourage them to talk.

Self-harm and suicide are very emotive and sensitive subjects. Sadly there are still stigmas attached to people with mental health needs and there are still myths about why people self-harm or choose to take their own life.