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Last year saw the amount of suicides decrease slightly from 11.2 deaths per 100,000 people to 10.57 deaths per 100,000 people, according to Office of National Statistics.

In 2024, the issue of suicide in England and Wales remained a significant public health concern, with ongoing efforts to address the rising rates. Mental health awareness campaigns were prevalent, aimed at reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek help. Data indicated that certain demographics, particularly young adults and men, were at higher risk, prompting targeted interventions. The government and various organisations continued to invest in mental health services, focusing on prevention strategies and support systems for those in crisis. Community outreach programs and educational initiatives sought to equip individuals with the tools to recognise signs of distress and provide appropriate support to peers. Despite these efforts, the challenge persisted, highlighting the need for continued advocacy and resources to combat this complex issue.

However, by 2023 the country saw the highest suicide rate in both men and women since 1990, despite awareness and resources being at an all time high, proving that there is still a long way to go when it comes to support for mental health, especially in and men.

Suicide is the biggest cause of death in men. The male suicide rate in England during 2023 was 17.1 per 100,000, compared to a female suicide rate of 5.6 per 100,000 whereas by last year this rate dropped to 16.37 per 100,000, compared to a female suicide rate of 5.09 per 100,000.

Mental health among men in England and Wales has become an increasingly important topic, as studies reveal alarming trends in mental health issues within these groups. Young men, in particular, face unique pressures related to societal expectations of masculinity, which often discourage them from expressing vulnerability or seeking help. This can lead to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Initiatives aimed at promoting mental well-being have emerged, focusing on creating safe spaces for men and young people to talk openly about their feelings.

It’s estimated that 1 in 4 people in England will experience mental health issues at least once a year with those suffering severe mental illness having a life shorter life expectancy of around 15-20 years compared to those without.

The lack of support for mental health remains a pressing issue in many communities, particularly in England and Wales, where access to services can be limited. Despite growing awareness of mental health challenges, many individuals still find it difficult to access timely and adequate care. Long waiting times for therapy and counselling services, coupled with insufficient funding for mental health programs, often leave those in need feeling abandoned and frustrated.

With more than two million people currently on waiting lists for NHS mental health support and more than 6.4 million referrals to mental health services during 2021 and 2022, this is clearly a pressing issue which must be addressed far more effectively than it currently is.

There has been a growing recognition of the importance of mental health issues among young people, leading to the implementation of various initiatives in schools and communities. Programmes that promote resilience and coping strategies are being integrated into educational settings, helping children learn to express their feelings and challenges. Additionally, access to mental health professionals, such as school counsellors and psychologists, is becoming more prevalent, providing children with the support they need. However, there is still a need for increased resources and training for educators and parents to recognise signs of mental distress and to create supportive environments that encourage open conversations about mental health. By prioritising children's mental health, society can help ensure a healthier future generation.

The Children’s Commissioner’s annual report on children’s mental health found that almost 305,000 (32%) children and young people referred to mental health services received support. But 28% (270,300) were still waiting for support from mental health services, while 39% (372,800) had their referral closed before accessing support.

This year must be a proactive year in providing the adequate support for mental health all over the UK, as this has been a heavily growing issue over the past decade more than ever.

England and Wales mental health crisis continues