Suicide rates in England, Wales hit 25-year high: ONS

LONDON, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- The number of suicides in England and Wales has reached its highest level in 25 years, according to statistics released Thursday by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The ONS reported a total of 6,069 suicides in England and Wales in 2023, or 11.4 suicide deaths per 100,000 people, compared to 10.7 deaths per 100,000 in 2022.

The data revealed that while the suicide rate among males was higher than that of females, the rate for females rose to 5.7 deaths per 100,000 in 2023, the highest rate since 1994. Suicides were most common among males aged 45 to 49, and females aged 50 to 54.

Meanwhile, the suicide rates in North-West and North-East England were reported to be twice as high as those in London.

Keith Baker, a social scientist at Glasgow Caledonian University, told Xinhua that the cost of living crisis is one of the contributing factors.

"It's still the same underlying problems: the cost of living, the difficulty in finding work, not just any work, but work that provides a sense of pride and purpose," Baker said. "Part of the issue is that men often avoid discussing health issues, especially mental health. This problem is pervasive, and we haven't truly addressed it."

Baker added that he was not surprised that the highest rates were in Northern England, which includes traditionally poorer and working-class areas.

"These regions haven't been well-supported by the government in terms of social services and support networks," he explained, noting that the closure of traditional working men's clubs has cut off a vital source of support for men facing challenges.

Baker underlined the need for political action to address the issue of suicide. "I don't think the complete cut to the winter fuel payment is a good example of support," he said.

"We have long waiting times in the NHS for mental health services. It can take months to get help, yet providing immediate support and reassurance to someone in crisis can make all the difference," Baker added, emphasizing the importance of timely intervention.

Vahe Nafilyan, head of data and analysis for social care and health at the ONS, said: "Suicide leaves a devastating impact on individuals, families, and communities, and we will continue to monitor suicide registrations closely."

He added: "Many people feel they've been discarded by the time they reach 40 or 45, with very few opportunities to retrain. The decline of lifelong learning and the disappearance of adult education colleges have only worsened this situation."