News

The rate of male suicide in England and Wales is at its highest for twenty years

The Office of National Statistics said the suicide rate may be higher among middle-aged males due to economic hardship, isolation and alcoholism.

The Manc - 3rd September 2020

Male suicide rates in 2019 were at their highest rates for two decades, official data has revealed.

Figures from the Office of National Statistics show there were 5,691 suicides registered in England and Wales in 2019 – with men accounting for almost 75%.

The worst-affected demographic were males aged 45-49.

ONS said the suicide rate may be higher among middle-aged men due to economic hardship, isolation and alcoholism – with this demographic also less likely to seek help.

Data also revealed that suicides among females aged 10 to 24 have increased “significantly” in the past eight years.

Dominic McGregor, co-founder of Social Chain in Manchester, who said “therapy saved his life”, expressed his dismay at the data; saying there needed to be “genuine support for men going through difficult times.”

“This news breaks my heart,” he wrote on social media.

“Given the world we’re in, it’s an issue which is going to increase.”

“There needs to be genuine support for men going through difficult times, normalising talking and normalising health services.

“Men statically [sic] don’t go to their GP or mental health services like therapy.

“Therapy saved my life, I can’t stress that enough. Talking helped but therapy saved me.

“If you have a friend struggling, help them find trained support.”

Mental health in Greater Manchester has suffered since the onset of the pandemic, with calls to emergency services doubling.

If you – or anyone you know – is experiencing issues, there are several places you can contact for support:

Manchester Mind – An organisation that has supported people in Manchester for over 30 years. Most services are now available over the phone, by email or video call. Call 0300 123 3393 or text 86463.

The GM Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust – The local NHS helpline is open 24/7 which you can call any time, day or night, if you feel your mental health is beginning to suffer: 0800 953 0285 .

CALM – The Campaign Against Living Miserably supports people via phone and webchat. You can call 0800 58 58 58 or speak to a support worker online. Open 5pm to midnight.

Samaritans – The Manchester & Salford Samaritans offer emotional support by telephone and email. The phone lines and email support are available 24/7. Call 116 123 or visit the website.