Mental Health: Suicide Rates increase

Mental Health: Suicide Rates increase

Office of National Statistics data shows an increase in suicide rates for the first time since 2013.

The increase is lower than the peak in the 1980s, but ONS have said that a change to way suicides are recorded could account for some of the increase.

¾ of suicides are men

The 2018 ONS figures reveal that three quarters of suicides were males:

• Men in their late 40s remain the highest of suicide
• Men aged 20-24 saw significant increases in the number of death by suicide
• 80-84 also saw a notable increase

Nick Stripe, head of health analysis and life events at the ONS said, “...the latest data shows this (the increase) was largely driven by an increase among men who have continued to be the most at risk of dying by suicide.”

Girls and Young women see significant rise

Females aged 10-24 saw a significant risk in the number of deaths recorded as suicide.

Nick Stripe comments, “In recent years, there have also been increase in the rate among young adults, with females under 25 reaching the highest rate on record for their age group.”

Melanie Lidstone-Land, mental health and medical negligence lawyer comments,

“Behind these worrying statistics are devastated families and friends. Suicides are preventable. Whilst there is progress around mental health as a public health matter, it needs so much more funding. We have an NHS that is stretched to the seams and lack of early intervention for mental health. Of particular concern is the increase in the number of young people taking their own lives. People shouldn’t have to be at crisis point to get help; we need intervention long before it gets to this.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress, they can contact the Samaritans on 116 123 or Mind on 0300 123 339.