Suicide can affect every one of us. Many people in Northern Ireland either know someone who has taken their own life or know somebody who has lost a loved one to suicide. It is difficult to speak in statistics because behind every number is a personal story and a family or friend grieving a loss. But the numbers help us understand the critical need to prioritise mental health and recognise the impact of suicide in our community. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that one in every 100 deaths worldwide is a result of suicide.[1] Official reporting states that Northern Ireland has the highest rate of suicide within the UK, with 1 in 4 suicide deaths being someone under the age of 30.[2] 

World Suicide Prevention Day is held on 10th September every year to mark a global opportunity to raise awareness of suicide and suicide prevention. This awareness leads to action, and action leads to hope. Preventing suicide is often possible, and with the right tools and knowledge, all of us can play our part in preventing suicide.

We can prevent suicide and create safer communities by: 

• Knowing who is most at risk of suicide
• Recognising the signs that someone is thinking about suicide
• Learning how to talk about suicide
• Knowing where to signpost people for help

Who is most at risk of suicide?

• People who have experienced abuse
• People who have experienced rejection
• People who have experienced loss 
• People who have been bereaved by suicide
• Northern Ireland's most deprived areas had a suicide rate that was almost twice that of the least deprived areas in 2020[3]Men have represented 70% of people dying by suicide every year since 2001 in Northern Ireland.[4]

What are the signs that someone is thinking of suicide?

• Mentioning outright that they want to die or take their own life
• Expressing feelings of hopelessness
• Withdrawing from their social circle, saying goodbye, giving away important items, or making a will
• Talking about feeling trapped and feeling like there's no way out
• Engaging in risky activities, being impulsive, or acting recklessly
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Talking about being a 'burden' to others
• Changes in their eating or sleeping habits
• Dramatic mood changes such as extreme anger, anxiety or agitation

How to talk to someone about suicide

• People can be reluctant to intervene when someone is in distress, worrying they will worsen the situation, but evidence suggests this is not the case. The offer of support and a listening ear are more likely to reduce distress than exacerbate it.
• Individuals in distress are often not looking for specific advice. You don't have to have all the answers, but simply being a good listener to someone and being there for them can be a great help.
• If you're worried someone is thinking about suicide, tell them you have observed behaviour from them that is associated with suicide risk and ask them if they are thinking about it. By being direct, you invite them to the conversation without them having to bring it up.
• Do not dismiss their feelings or problems. If they are contemplating suicide, the situation is serious, and ignoring their experiences or emotions is not helpful.
• Reassure them that help is available and offer to support them in seeking it out.
• If the person asks you not to tell anyone, be aware that you might have to if you feel there is an immediate threat to their life.
•  If you are supporting someone at immediate risk of suicide, stay with them and get emergency help. Do not leave this person alone.

Everyone is different. It's important not to blame yourself if you aren't able to spot the signs that someone is feeling suicidal.

Where to get help

If you are having suicidal thoughts or supporting someone else, remember that professional help is available. Don't try to deal with this alone. Seek help from your local GP or for more immediate crisis support, the following helplines are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week:

Lifeline: 0808 808 8000

Samaritans: 116 123

Emergency Services: 999

Other organisations that can help are: 

Extern: 0800 085 4808 (Family support, suicide prevention service, and crisis response)

Lighthouse: 028 9075 5070 (Support and help for those affected by suicide)

New Life Counselling: 028 9039 1630 (Counselling support for individuals and families)

PIPS: 0800 088 6042 (Support to those who have been affected by suicide or suicidal ideation)

[1] https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/131056/9789241564779_eng.pdf 

[2] https://www.nisra.gov.uk/system/files/statistics/Suicide_Review_Report.pdf

[3] https://www.nisra.gov.uk/system/files/statistics/Suicide_Review_Report.pdf

[4] https://www.nisra.gov.uk/system/files/statistics/Suicide_Review_Report.pdf

 

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