Having completed recent suicide-prevention training and become an Orange Badge responder, I want to raise awareness about a worrying trend: in 2023 6,069 suicides were registered in England & Wales — a 7.6% rise on 2022. These are not just numbers; they are people, families and communities in pain. Office for National Statistics
Key statistics (official sources)
- 6,069 suicides registered in 2023 (England & Wales). This was an increase of 7.6% compared with 2022. Office for National Statistics
- 5,583 suicides were registered in 2021 (England & Wales).
- Suicide rates among 15–19 year olds rose sharply around 2020–2021 and reached their highest levels in decades — a signal that younger people are particularly vulnerable. Disability Rights UK
Suicide is rarely one single cause
Suicide is complex and rarely the result of one single factor. While no single “type” of person takes their life, there are shared risk factors that increase the likelihood someone will develop suicidal thoughts. Identifying these factors helps us recognise risk and respond effectively.
Common risk factors (not exhaustive):
- Financial difficulty, poverty, unemployment and housing insecurity
- Physical illness and chronic pain
- Substance misuse and harmful gambling
- Domestic abuse and relationship breakdown
- Social isolation and loneliness
- Contact with the criminal justice system
- Caring responsibilities and caregiver strain
- Neurodiversity (e.g., some autistic people may experience increased isolation or mental health challenges)
Addressing these social determinants is central to suicide prevention and to supporting people in crisis.
Warning signs — what to look and listen for
You don’t need to be a professional to notice when someone is struggling. If you hear or see any of these, ask a straightforward, compassionate question such as: “Are you thinking about ending your life?” Asking directly can help keep someone safe.
Verbal warning signs (examples):
- “I just don’t have a reason to go on living.”
- “No one cares.” / “They’ll be better off without me.”
- “I can’t carry on like this.” / “I want to die.”
Behavioural warning signs (examples):
- Giving away treasured items or settling affairs
- Withdrawing from family, friends or activities
- Acting recklessly or putting themselves in harm’s way
- Increased alcohol or drug use
- Looking for ways to kill themselves or researching methods
- Sudden calmness after a period of distress (this can be a warning sign)
- Saying goodbye to people as if it’s final
Immediate steps to take if you’re worried
- Ask directly and listen without judgment. Simple, direct questions can open the door.
- Stay with the person (if safe) and remove immediate means where possible.
- Help them contact professional support — for immediate danger call 999 (UK) or your local emergency number.
- Contact Samaritans (UK & ROI) on 116 123 or use local crisis lines.
- Use evidence-based tools such as the Stay Alive app (pocket suicide prevention resource). Grassroots Suicide Prevention+1
Resources & tools
- Stay Alive app — downloadable resource that includes safety planning, emergency contacts and coping tools. Grassroots Suicide Prevention+1
- Samaritans — 24/7 listening line: 116 123 (UK & ROI).
- Local NHS and crisis services — contact your GP or local mental health services for urgent help.
- National and local charities (many provide helplines, online chat and resources).
How I can help
I offer a free 15-minute clarity call to help you or someone you care about work out next steps. If you think I can help, DM the word PAUSE and I’ll get back to you to arrange the call. I’m trained in suicide prevention and hold the Orange Badge — I’ll listen, help you plan immediate safety, and signpost to specialist support if needed.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 999 now.
