Suicide is one of the most significant public health challenges facing our communities, workplaces and families. In England and Wales, 6,069 suicides were registered in 2023 - the highest rate recorded since 1999. Men continue to be disproportionately affected, with suicide rates significantly higher than those among women.
While these figures are deeply concerning, they also highlight why awareness matters. Recognising when someone may be struggling and knowing how to respond can help save lives. Whether you're concerned about your own mental health or someone else's, understanding the warning signs is an important first step.
Why Suicide Awareness Matters
People experiencing suicidal thoughts don't always tell others how they're feeling. Instead, they may show changes in their behaviour, mood or daily routines that suggest they're struggling.
Recognising these signs early, starting a conversation and helping someone access support can make a real difference.
Creating a culture where people feel safe to talk openly about their mental health without fear of judgement is equally important. A compassionate conversation can be the first step towards getting the help someone needs.
Suicide Watchouts: Warning Signs To Look For
Everyone's experience is different, but some common warning signs include:
- Sudden changes in mood or behaviour
- Withdrawing from friends, family or colleagues
- Expressing feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness or being a burden
- Increased emotional distress, anxiety or agitation
- Noticeable changes in sleep, appetite or daily routines
- Talking as though there's no future or no way forward
- Giving away possessions or putting affairs in order
- Experiencing a crisis following a significant life event, such as bereavement, relationship breakdown or financial difficulties
These signs don't necessarily mean someone is suicidal, but they should never be ignored. If you're worried about someone, trust your instincts and reach out.
Start The Conversation
One of the biggest myths about suicide is that asking someone directly about it will put the idea into their head. Research shows this isn't the case.
If you're concerned, ask the question clearly, calmly and without judgement:
"Are you thinking about killing yourself?"
Although it may feel difficult, asking directly gives someone permission to talk about how they're feeling and can be the first step towards getting them the support they need.
Listen With Compassion
If someone tells you they're having suicidal thoughts, take what they say seriously.
Try to:
- Listen without interrupting or judging
- Acknowledge how they're feeling
- Show empathy and compassion
- Reassure them that support is available
- Let them know they don't have to face things alone
- Encourage them to seek help
Avoid:
- Acting shocked or dismissive
- Trying to solve all their problems straight away
- Arguing about whether they should feel this way
- Promising to keep their thoughts a secret if you're worried about their safety
You don't need to have all the answers. Simply being present, listening and showing you care can make a significant difference.
Encourage Professional Support
If someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts, encourage them to access professional support as soon as possible.
You could:
- Encourage them to contact their GP
- Help them arrange an appointment with a mental health professional
- Contact a crisis helpline together
- Support them to access local mental health services
- Offer to accompany them to appointments if they would find this helpful
If someone has a suicide plan, access to the means to carry it out, a clear timeframe or says they intend to act, this is a medical emergency. Stay with them if it's safe to do so and seek urgent help by calling 999 or going to your nearest A&E department. If you're unable to keep yourself or someone else safe, call the emergency services immediately.
Stay Connected
Support doesn't end when the immediate crisis has passed.
Checking in regularly, sending a message or arranging to meet can help someone feel connected and remind them they're not alone. Evidence shows that maintaining contact after a suicidal crisis can reduce the risk of future suicide attempts and supports recovery.
Where To Get Help
If you or someone you know needs support, help is available.
Samaritans
Call 116 123 free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Visit the Samaritans website for more information.
Shout
Text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential support, available 24/7.
National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK
Call 0800 689 5652, available daily from 6pm to midnight.
If you're in immediate danger
If you or someone else has attempted suicide, is at immediate risk of serious harm, or cannot be kept safe, call 999 immediately or go to your nearest A&E department.
Remember, talking about suicide doesn't increase the risk of suicide. Starting a compassionate conversation, listening without judgement and helping someone access support could make a lifesaving difference.
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