Scottish mental wellbeing Minster Maree Todd has responded to a rise in the number of probable suicides last year, calling the figures distressing and promising to deliver change.
National Records of Scotland figures show there were 792 probable suicides in 2023 – which is an increase of 30 on the previous year.
The Scottish government and COSLA are taking action to reduce the number of deaths by suicide by ensuring government and local services work together to support anyone at risk of suicide or affected by it, while at the same time, tackling the underlying factors that can lead to suicide, such as inequalities, stigma and discrimination, which have been exacerbated by the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis.
Todd said: “This report makes for distressing reading and my sincere condolences go out to all those who have been affected by the loss of a loved one by suicide. I am determined that together with COSLA and other partners we reduce the number of deaths by suicide and improve the nation’s mental health as a whole.
“The ambition and innovation in Scotland’s suicide prevention approach is widely recognised. However, we know there is always more to do.
“We are working hard with communities and services to help people talk more openly about suicide and offer compassionate support. We are prioritising reaching more people at higher risk of suicide, including those living in poverty, middle aged men, and LGBT communities.
"We are launching an online portal to ensure people feeling suicidal know where to go for help. The introduction of suicide reviews this year will also help us spot missed opportunities to support people and importantly use that learning to redesign services.
“Our wider actions around Mental Health are also helping to prevent suicide. They include funding more than 800 additional mental health workers in A&E departments, GP practices, police custody suites and prisons, and investing in our Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund which prioritises suicide prevention and social isolation projects.”
Chair of the Scottish government’s suicide prevention academic advisory group professor Rory O’Connor said: “Similar to other countries, sadly an increase is not unexpected given the challenges of recent years, including the cost of living crisis and the economic downturn which have led to financial and social hardship for so many.
“Every single death is heartbreaking, leaving behind devastated families, friends and communities. We need to continue to do everything we can to ensure that those at risk of suicide receive the care and support that they need when they need it.”
