The Problem

Suicide is the second greatest cause of death amongst young men (15-44) in the UK as well as many young women too.

The National Statistics Office reports that in 2006 in the UK there were 5554 suicides which amounts to about 15 a day, which is considerably more than road traffic accidents. Furthermore, this figure is almost certainly understated when you take into account coroners' natural reluctance to assign verdicts of suicide, particularly where there is any doubt involved.

The World Health Organisation states that on average around 1 million people a year die by suicide; that is 1 death every 40 seconds and, for every person who succeeds, there are 20 more attempts.

Suicide amongst young people is an epidemic not just in the UK but is a global problem. In the last 45 years suicide rates have increased by 60% worldwide and the WHO estimates suggest that worldwide, suicide fatalities could rise to 1.5 million by 2020.

In all countries, suicide is now one of the three leading causes of death among people aged 15 - 44 years

Despite the fact that depression affects around 121 million people worldwide, there is still so much which is not understood. Furthermore, the treatment that so many need is hindered by the stigma attached to mental illness.

An estimated 7-14% of adolescents self-harm at some point and as many as 20-45% say they have experienced suicidal thoughts.

More people seek specialist help for mental health each year than they do for cancer.