The silent epidemic
Male suicide has been described as a “silent epidemic”. Despite the high incidence and level of contribution to men’s mortality, it is the lack of public awareness that makes this epidemic so silent.
In the UK, suicide is the highest cause of death among men under the age 45. In fact the highest suicide rate in the UK is recorded for men aged 40–44.
The psychological and sociological factors of Covid-19 are starting to ring alarm bells. The combination of physical distancing, economic stress, challenges in accessing mental health treatment and pervasive anxiety are creating “a perfect storm” for suicide mortality.
It’s not just the loss of a life, which in itself is a tragedy, it’s the ripple effect this has on families, friends and communities.
The research has been clear on this one for years: isolation and loneliness is bad for our health. Lack of social connection heightens health risks as much as smoking three-quarters of a pack of cigarettes a day (Julianne Holt-Lunstad, PhD, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University).
There’s evidence that deaths by suicide increased both after the 1918 flu pandemic and the 2003 SARS outbreak. The Samaritans is receiving 7,000 requests for help a day, a third of these are related to the Covid-19 pandemic. The charity analysed feedback from 1,920 helpline volunteers and highlighted loneliness, financial pressures and uncertainty about the future as aspects of lockdown that are causing stress.
Every July, 24/7 Samaritans Awareness Day highlights their services to help anyone who needs someone to listen, 24/7, without judgement or pressure.
Being there for one another is so important as we all navigate the personal challenges of Covid-19. Don’t be frightened to talk to someone if you think they are exhibiting signs of suicidal thoughts. Offering to listen without judging is an amazing gift – and anyone can do it. It allows the other person to verbalise what they’re thinking. Just being able to say things out loud can be immensely helpful in ordering thoughts and feelings. Sometimes fears can diminish once they are spoken about. Demonstrating to a person that you “genuinely care” about their wellbeing by showing a “sincere interest” is “a good first step.
Samaritans: 116 123 / jo@samaritans.org /