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Suicidal Thoughts

If you are in danger right now, call 999 or go to A&E. You can call Samaritans free, any time, on 116 123.

What are suicidal thoughts?

Suicidal thoughts are thoughts about ending your life. They can range from a passing feeling that everyone would be better off without you, to making plans. They often come when pain feels unbearable and it seems like there is no way out.

Suicidal thoughts are more common than many people realise, and they are not a sign of weakness. Feelings change, and with support people do come through this. Many things can contribute, including debt, relationship breakdown, work pressure, injury, drinking or drug use, and mental health conditions.

What are the signs someone may be struggling?

1. What they say:

  • Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped or like a burden.
  • Saying things like "what's the point" or "they'd be better off without me".
  • Talking about death or suicide, even as a joke.

2. What they do:

  • Withdrawing from mates, family and work.
  • Drinking or using drugs more.
  • Taking risks on or off site.
  • Giving away possessions or getting affairs in order.
  • Saying goodbye, or a sudden calm after a period of distress.

3. How they seem:

  • Low, anxious, angry or irritable.
  • Sleeping much more or much less.
  • Losing interest in things they used to enjoy.

How to help a mate

If you are worried about someone, ask them directly: "Are you thinking about suicide?" Asking does not put the idea in their head, and it can be a huge relief to be asked. Listen without judging. Help them contact support, and stay with them if they are in danger.

What are the statistics for suicide in the UK?

National figures: In 2023, more than 6,000 suicides were registered in England and Wales, the highest rate since 1999.

Men: Around three quarters of people who die by suicide are men. Suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50 in the UK.

Construction: The ONS found that the risk of suicide among low-skilled male construction workers was 3.7 times higher than the male national average. The Lighthouse Charity estimates that around two construction workers take their own lives every working day in the UK and Ireland.

Prevention: Suicide is preventable. Talking and getting support saves lives.

Where to get help with suicidal thoughts UK?

Always call 999 if you or someone else is in immediate danger. In England you can also call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.

Samaritans:
Helpline: 116 123 (24/7, free to call)
Email: jo@samaritans.org

Shout: Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7, free).

Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity:
Helpline: 0345 605 1956 (24/7)
Text HARDHAT to 85258.

CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably):
Helpline: 0800 58 58 58 (5pm to midnight, every day)
Website: https://www.thecalmzone.net/

Papyrus HOPELINE247: For people under 35, and anyone worried about a young person.
Helpline: 0800 068 4141 (24/7)

Andy's Man Club: Free, peer-to-peer talking groups for men, every Monday evening across the UK.
Website: https://andysmanclub.co.uk/

You matter. Please reach out today.

Crisis and harm

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