New Lancet Study Maps Suicide Rates Worldwide

A comprehensive new study in The Lancet Public Health reveals critical insights on global suicide patterns:

Key Findings:

• 746,000 suicide deaths occurred globally in 2021
• Global rates have declined 39.5% since 1990 (from 14.9 to 9.0 per 100,000)
• Males die by suicide at more than twice the rate of females
• The mean age at suicide death has increased to 47 years
• Females attempt suicide significantly more often than males
• Highest regional rates: Eastern Europe, Southern & Central sub-Saharan Africa

Implications:

1. Strengthened post-attempt care: The dramatic difference in demographics between attempts and those who died  (especially among females) highlights the critical importance of robust follow-up protocols after suicide attempts, a key opportunity for prevention.
2. Prioritise lethal means safety counselling: The study reinforces that means matter significantly, with males more likely to use highly lethal methods. Focused counselling on increasing safety around lethal means should be a standard component of care for all patients at risk, with particular attention to addressing methods the person has identified and the means most prevalent in your region.

This research underscores that suicide remains preventable through targeted public health approaches. 

Understanding these patterns helps us direct resources where they're most needed.

Read the full study.