Did You Know?
Did You Know…
Seventeen people will die from suicide today… and tomorrow… and the next day in the UK. Hidden in that fact is that suicide is the biggest killer of men and women under 35 – more than in traffic accidents; more than from cancer. And these are almost all preventable deaths.
Did You Know…
Deaths from suicide in the UK in 2024 (the last year for complete data) are much the same as they were 20 years ago, and significantly higher than the lowest recorded level in 2007. Worse: there are indications that the rate is trending UP. And this begs the question: Why are we not doing more to stop this terrible loss of life?
Did You Know…
There is no single cause of suicide – there are usually a number of reasons it occurs. The thought is much more common than most people think – more than 1 in 20 people make a suicide attempt at some point in their lives. Whilst not all result in loss of life, every single attempt represents a significant and serious level of individual distress.
Did You Know…
Families bereaved by suicide are at greater risk of suicide. And yet, the majority of people who are most impacted by suicide do not access support. As a result, around 40% of the ‘suicide bereaved’ contemplate suicide themselves. Far too often, devastating distress strikes the same families twice.
Did You Know…
Less than a third of people who take their own lives (in the UK) have been in touch with a mental health professional in the year
before they died. It is ordinary folk – Mums, Dads, Brothers, Sisters, Family, Friends and Colleagues – who can act in time to save a life.
Did You Know…
People who are thinking of taking their own lives need help – they are struggling to stay alive under their own resources. They want someone to reach out a hand, offer an arm to lean on or a shoulder to cry on…. or give them a hug.
Did You Know…
Asking questions like ‘Are you OK?’ and ‘Are you thinking of taking your own life?’ are the start of a conversation that can save a life. People do not take their own lives because they have been asked these questions – they take them because no-one asked, and heard the pain hidden in the response.
NOW You Know…
You too could save a life! Knowing what to look out for. Knowing when and how to ask the question. Knowing where to swiftly seek the right kind of help and support. These are potentially life-saving interventions that are quick and easy to learn. Look here for our suggestions.
DO You Know…
Someone who may be thinking of taking their own life right now?
Are you worried about someone you know today? If you are concerned, talk to them. Listening can be life-saving, and is one of the kindest things you can do. Be honest; tell them why you are worried, and ask them if they are thinking about taking their own life. Show them you care. Click our WORRIED ABOUT SOMEONE link for more suggested actions.