World Suicide Prevention Day

On the 10^th of September there is an opportunity to draw attention to the reality of how many people lose their lives to suicide each year. Additionally, it allows us to share resources on suicide prevention and create an open dialogue about the importance of mental health.

The Office for National Statistics most up-to-date stats show that there were 6,069 registered suicides in 2023, and we now have the highest rate of suicide in 25 years¹. 

When a person reaches out for help, and they are struggling with the complex emotions that come with suicidal thoughts, support is available to them. However, if the support coming from healthcare providers is not accessible or is substandard the consequences can be fatal.

Losing a loved one to suicide is a tragedy, however when their death could be prevented the tragedy is harder to come to terms with. This can happen when there is:

• A missed/delayed diagnosis of a mental health condition resulting in a lack of or delay in treatment which can lead to suicide. This could be from a failure to diagnose or failure to refer to an appropriate mental health specialist.
• A failure to provide follow-up care to vulnerable people, including a follow-up after starting new medication to see if it is working or being reviewed post hospital discharge. Without the follow-up care a person may feel that they have no support and will be at more risk.
• Medical professionals refusing help to at-risk individuals who have requested immediate access to support. If they are given the support they need, then a suicide attempt may be prevented.

If you think you have lost a spouse, child or parent who died by suicide and it could have been prevented, please feel free to get in touch today on 01256 844888 or enquiries@lambbrooks.com.   

All initial conversations are free of charge, confidential and you would be under no obligation. We also work on No Win/No Fee basis for any claims that we are able to assist with.

Suicide Support

Suicide is preventable. If you need help or support, you can contact:

• Samaritans on 116 123 or https://www.samaritans.org/
• Mind on 0300 102 1234 or Helplines | Mind - Mind

¹Suicides in England and Wales - Office for National Statistics (ons.gov.uk)