The national suicide prevention strategy annual report on progress 2008 has been published (10 July) . The report highlights progress made on a number of specific initiatives during 2008 as well as outlining some key issues for 2009. The suicide rate continues to fall and is now the lowest rate on record. In addition, there has bee a further fall in the rate of suicide amongst young men under the age of 35. There has also been a further reduction in suicides amongst mental health in-patients and in prisons. We cannot afford to be complacent however. Previously periods of high unemployment or severe economic problems have had an adverse effect on the mental health of the population and have been associated with higher rates of suicide. PCTs and other front-line agencies are aware of the situation and continue to identify and support vulnerable individuals wha are at risk.
Please click here to download the annual report.
Further information on the annual report is available from Keith Foster.