Working together to create a world where fewer people die by suicide.
According to the ONS, there were 6,069 suicides registered in England and Wales in 2023, the highest rate seen since 1999. Jacqui Morrissey, Assistant Director of Influencing at Samaritans’, reaction to the ONS data on the day of release was:
“Today’s shocking figures are even worse than expected and with suicide rates at their highest in over 20 years, this should be treated as a public health crisis.”
Raising awareness of this health crisis is needed!
World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), on the 10th of September, is a chance to raise awareness, and take meaningful steps towards preventing suicide and supporting those who may be struggling to cope. Set up by the World Health Organisation in 2003, the triennial theme is: Changing the Narrative on Suicide” with the call to action “Start the Conversation”.
How do we change the Narrative on Suicide?
Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue and shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support. This campaign urges people to start a conversation about suicide and suicide prevention. As no matter how big or small, this contributes to a supportive and understanding society, helping to break down barriers.
A rise in female suicide rates.
The suicide rate for females in England and Wales increased to 5.7 deaths per 100,000 in 2023, from 5.4 deaths per 100,000 in 2022; this is the highest rate for females since 1994 (Source: ONS 2023). With 64% of unpaid carers registered with Carers Support West Sussex are female, this increase in female suicide rate is a real concern at Carers Support.
Carers UK ‘State of Caring 2023’ survey revealed that over a third of carers whose mental health was bad or very bad said they had thoughts related to self-harm or suicide.
Tackling women at risk of suicide
National charity, Grassroots Suicide Prevention, who empower people to save lives from suicide through educating, connecting and campaigning are using WSPD to highlight women who are at risk of suicide. As the charity fears this tragedy is being overlooked.
This year they worked with ten charities to launch the Women’s Suicide Prevention Hub, a resource for self-identifying women who are at risk of suicide, and those worried about or working with them. The Hub, which can be found here (Women’s Suicide Prevention Hub – Grassroots Suicide Prevention (prevent-suicide.org.uk)) and delves into topics such as:
- Warning signs in women
- Women’s suicide myths
- Supporting women at risk
- Mental health care tips
- Along with signposting to relevant supporting organisations to access support
Suicide is very complex and individual and rarely about one thing. It isn’t always a mental health issue. Grassroots Suicide Prevention worked with expert charities to address key risk factors specific to women. Understanding these risk factors, spotting the signs, and learning how to ask about suicide can save lives.
More information available on Grassroots Suicide Prevention app
Grassroots Suicide Prevention developed an NHS recommended Stay Alive app to access if you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or concerned about someone. There are over 800 resources to help you stay safe for now. You can download the app here Stay Alive App – Grassroots Suicide Prevention (prevent-suicide.org.uk)
If you feel you need some support, please contact Samaritans
When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
