Suicide facts
Suicide is a leading cause of death, particularly in young people, both in England and worldwide. It is estimated that around 1 million people will die by suicide worldwide each year. During 2008, there were 4,282 suicides in England.
Attempted suicides are much more common than actual suicides. There are at least 140,000 attempted suicides each year in England and Wales.
Gender
Women are more likely to attempt suicide or engage in other types of self-harming behaviour. However, men are more likely to succeed and die by suicide. Suicide rates are three times higher in men than in women.
Men under the age of 35 are particularly at risk of dying by suicide. Suicide is the second most common cause of death in England and Wales in this age group, after accidental death.
Age
Cases of suicide have been reported in people of all ages, including children, but suicide or attempted suicide are more common in certain age groups.
In men, suicide is more common in people who are 15-44 years of age, and particularly in men who are 15-24 years old. Men who are 45 years of age or over have a lower risk of committing suicide.
In women, suicide is more common between the ages of 45 and 74. Younger women between the ages of 15 and 24 are thought to have a low risk of suicide.
Suicide in men
One reason so many young men die by suicide is because many men are reluctant to talk about their feelings or to seek help when they need it. Men may be more likely to avoid or ignore problems.
A support group called the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is an excellent resource for young men who are feeling unhappy. As well as the website, CALM also has a helpline (0800 58 58 58).
