Comment on Self-harm, Suicide and Risk: Helping People Who Self-harm report

Commenting on the report on self-harm, suicide and risk published by the Royal College of Psychiatrists today, Joe Ferns, director of policy at Samaritans and member of the working group, said:

This report is a timely reminder that good care for people at risk of self-harm and suicide can lead to a reduction in the nation’s suicide rate. There is strong evidence of a link between economic hardship and suicide; figures released last week show that, in the Republic of Ireland, people taking their own lives in 2009 increased by 24 per cent, compared to the previous year.

Meanwhile, 2008 UK figures showed the number of suicides and the suicide rate increased slightly compared to 2007. This could indicate the start of an upward trend continuing until there is an improvement in economic conditions. In the current economic climate, and against a backdrop of budget cuts, it is vital that the government is committed to a suicide prevention strategy.”

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