Suicides

Healthy People
Mental health
Crisis intervention
Risk
Safe spaces
Support
suicide

introduction Introduction

The effects of self-harm and suicide can be devastating. Many people, including friends, family, professionals, colleagues and wider society, will feel the impact. There are also significant financial costs associated with a suicide. The average cost of a death from suicide of a working age adult in the UK is estimated to be £1.67m.

We believe that too many people die from suicide and are touched by self-harm in Derbyshire. We also believe that in many cases the death may have been prevented if the signs of distress that the person was displaying were recognised and appropriate support provided.

why is it important to population health Why is it important to Population Health?

1 in 5 people experience suicidal thoughts within their lifetime. 75% of deaths by suicide are people not in contact with mental health services within a year of their death.

The Suicide Prevention Strategy for England 2023 – 2028 states the following are amongst high-risk groups:

  • Children and Young People
  • Middle Aged Men
  • People who have self-harmed
  • People in contact with mental health services
  • People in contact with criminal justice system
  • Autistic people
  • Pregnant women and new mothers

People who face health inequalities are at increased risk of suicide. The national strategy outlines people who experience financial difficulty and economic adversity, gambling issues, alcohol and drug misuse, social isolation and loneliness and domestic abuse amongst other higher risk groups.

the derbyshire population approach The Derbyshire Population Health Approach

The Derbyshire Population Health Approach focuses on prevention, population health, evidence-informed practices, causes, and collaboration. It emphasises proactive measures to prevent health issues, tailors interventions to specific populations, incorporates evidence-informed practices, addresses underlying causes, and promotes collaboration for effective action.

When considering the topic of suicide within The Derbyshire Population Health Approach:

A preventative approach to suicide begins long before a moment of crisis.

Understanding the influencing factors and the root causes of emotional distress is essential to implement preventative mechanisms in the right settings at the right time.

Prevention efforts include raising awareness about mental health, reducing stigma, and providing accessible support services. Early identification of individuals at risk and intervention strategies, such as counselling and crisis support, are crucial.

Tailoring suicide prevention strategies to meet the needs of Derbyshire’s different population groups, especially vulnerable ones such as the youth, elderly, and those with a history of mental illness, is essential for effective prevention. We continue to live in very challenging times and the reasons that lead someone to harming themselves or taking their own life may be extremely complex.

Implementing evidence-informed strategies and policies, informed by research and best practices in suicide prevention, is key. This includes continual evaluation and adaptation of strategies to ensure they are effective and meet the community’s needs.

Increased understanding through data and research is a key priority in the suicide prevention strategy for England 2023-2028. An expanded evidence base will provide more insight into successful prevention, treatment and support.

Understanding the multifaceted causes of suicide, such as mental health conditions, substance abuse, economic stress, and traumatic experiences, is crucial. A comprehensive approach to addressing these factors can lead to more effective prevention strategies.

A comprehensive approach that addresses these determinants is necessary for effective prevention, management and support.

Collaboration among healthcare providers, mental health professionals, community organisations, and policymakers is critical. These partnerships enable the development of a coordinated and comprehensive approach to suicide prevention, ensuring resources are effectively utilized and interventions are wide-reaching.

The Derbyshire Self-harm and Suicide Prevention Partnership Forum is a local multiagency group that leads a strategic approach to reducing the number of deaths from suicide. The vision is “In Derby and Derbyshire we will work together to promote positive mental health and wellbeing and inspire hope, so as few people as possible struggle with distress and despair, experience self-harm or die from suicide”.

latest derbyshire data Latest Derbyshire Data

Trend Data

Derbyshire Quilt

Prevalence Maps of Derbyshire

The maps below illustrate Lower Super Output Areas (LSOAs) and Middle Super Output Areas (MSOAs) for Derbyshire. LSOAs and MSOAs are geographical divisions used for statistical purposes, allowing for more detailed analysis of local data. In these maps, you can explore various health indicators and data for Derbyshire, providing valuable insights into the area’s health and wellbeing.

In the top right of the map, you’ll find the ‘Layer Control’ icon. This is an easy way to customise what you see on the map visualisation. Click the ‘Layer Control’ to choose which information is displayed on the map. Pick the indicator that interests you the most, and the map will transform accordingly.

Slope Index

This chart illustrates the differences in health and lifestyle factors across areas in Derbyshire, from the most deprived (decile 1, red) to the least deprived (decile 10, green). As you move from left to right on the chart (from more deprived to less deprived areas), the line shows whether these factors are becoming more or less common. Essentially, it’s a way to see how living in wealthier or poorer areas affects the prevalence of these factors.

further analysis and assessments Further Analysis & Assessments

Derbyshire Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) involves a thorough examination of a specific health problem, exploring its causes, consequences, and underlying factors. It combines various data sources, collaboration with stakeholders, and rigorous analysis to generate insights for evidence-informed interventions and policy changes.

more information and resources More Information & Resources

Here is a list of useful resources and information to help prevent issues related to adult mental health. These materials are meant to provide individuals, healthcare professionals, and communities with the knowledge and tools they need as part of efforts to address mental health.

Contributors

James Creaghan, Public Health

Luke Oldham, Service Development Officer