New statistics show over 100 deaths in the county were probable suicides
The number of people who have taken their own lives in Lanarkshire remained static in 2020.
Figures published by the National Records of Scotland revealed that there were 112 probable suicides in the region last year.
Of these deaths, 79 were among men and 33 were among women.
The overall suicide rate across the region was 14.6 deaths per 100,000 over the last five years.
Probable suicides includes deaths from intentional self-harm and events of undetermined intent.
Of these deaths, 50 were in South Lanarkshire – down five on 2019 – and 62 were in North Lanarkshire – up five on 2019.
Across Scotland, 805 deaths by suicide were registered in 2020, a decrease from 833 in 2019.
Of these deaths, 575 were among men, and 230 were among women.
Suicide rates continue to peak for both men and women in mid-life however – in 2020 men aged 35-44 and women aged 35-54 had the highest rates.
Although the rate of suicide for women has increased since 2017, men remain almost three times more likely to die by suicide.
Data from 2020 also shows that people living in Scotland’s most deprived communities remain three times more likely to die by suicide compared to those living in the most affluent communities.
Suicide prevention charity Samaritans welcomed the drop in suicides nationally but are calling for sustained action to continue the trend.
Rachel Cackett, executive director of Samaritans Scotland, said:“Every one of these 805 deaths represents a life lost, with devastating consequences for families, friends and communities.
“There is no single reason why someone takes their own life and a range of factors contribute to suicide risk. Deaths by suicide in Scotland had been rising since 2017, so this data is a small but positive step.
“However, one life lost to suicide is one too many, and these figures are a reminder of why suicide prevention must remain a priority as we emerge from the challenges of the pandemic.
“We know first-hand how urgent Scotland’s work on suicide prevention is because we listen to and support people experiencing suicidal crisis, day and night.
“Calls to our helpline each day remind us why we must continue to work together to achieve our shared vision for a Scotland where fewer lives are lost to, and devastated by the impact of, suicide.”
NHS Lanarkshire are committed to tackling suicide and have reminded residents that a range of support is available from your local GP, charities such as Samaritans and Breathing Space and the Lanarkshire Suicide Prevention App.
Susan McMorrin, NHS Lanarkshire senior health promotion officer, said:“Every suicide is a tragedy that has a far-reaching impact long after a person has died.
“Suicide prevention is everyone’s business and continues to be a priority in Lanarkshire.
“The past 18 months have been tough for everyone. The key message to emphasise is that suicide is preventable. We must encourage people to talk about their feelings and seek support when they need it.
“We should all look out for the people around us. Support and help is available around the clock.
“The release of the suicide figures for 2020 indicate that suicide is still a comparatively rare but devastating event.
“A lot of work is required to reduce the stigma and encourage people to open up, especially as we recover from the impact of Covid and process the toll it has taken.
“Nationally, men account for more than two thirds of all suicides, and are three times more likely in deprived compared to wealthy areas.
“We continue to work tirelessly to tackle suicide in partnership with both Lanarkshire local authorities, Health and Social Care Partnerships and voluntary organisations, such as the Samaritans.
“Local action plans reflect the priorities identified in the Every Life Matters national suicide prevention action plan.”
Help and support is available at: ■Samaritans – 116 123 (24hr)
Calls are free & confidential. Email jo@samaritans.org. For people experiencing distress or despair, including those that could lead to suicide.
■Breathing Space 0800 83 85 87 (6pm – 2am daily and 24 hours weekends). A free and confidential phone-line service for any individual, who is experiencing low mood or depression.
■For help and support for your mental health, speak to your GP or if out of hours, call NHS 24 on 111.
■Lanarkshire Suicide Prevention App – search for SP Lanarkshire with your App store provider.
ChildLine 0800 1111 – a free 24-hour helpline for children and young people in the UK.
■HopeLine UK (0800 24 20 24) – a free service for children and young people under the age of 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide & for anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide.
■http://www.elament.org.uk - for more focused supports and services
■https://www. lanarkshiremindmatters.scot.nhs. uk – run by NHS Lanarkshire Adult Psychological Services.
It aims to link you to mental health information, advice and help, wherever you live in Lanarkshire.
People who are struggling are urged to reach out as there is help available