World Suicide Prevention Day is on 10 September, a time dedicated to raising awareness of suicide, reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations about mental health.
Suicide remains one of the most significant public health challenges facing society today, affecting individuals, families and communities across the country.
In this blog, partner Nimmisha Aslam and associate Andrew Debrah discuss the importance of suicide prevention, the challenges faced by those experiencing mental ill-health, and the role healthcare professionals play in identifying and supporting people at risk.
What do the statistics say?
According to the Office for National Statistics, there were 6190 suicides registered in England and Wales in 2024, equivalent to 11.4 suicide deaths per 100,000 people. Behind each of these statistics is an individual, a family and a community affected by loss.
Suicide can affect people from all backgrounds and age groups. Although the factors that contribute to suicide are often complex, some common indicators that a person may be struggling with their mental health include:
expressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
talking about wanting to die or feeling like a burden to others
withdrawing from family, friends or activities they previously enjoyed
significant changes in mood, sleep or behaviour
increased alcohol or substance misuse
self-harm or engaging in risky behaviour
The above list is not exhaustive. However, it highlights some of the signs that may indicate a person is experiencing a crisis and may require urgent support.
Our role in medical negligence cases
From a medical negligence perspective, we have seen many cases where opportunities to prevent harm have been missed. Healthcare providers have an important responsibility to assess suicide risk appropriately, listen carefully to concerns raised by patients and their families, and ensure that suitable treatment and follow-up arrangements are in place.
At Russell-Cooke, we have acted for families affected by failures in mental health care. This includes incidents of:
inpatients taking their own life while sectioned, due to inappropriate supervision
individuals not being sectioned or treated in time by the NHS, resulting in death
not being appropriately treated by NHS or private psychiatrists in relation to declining mental health
As a specialist medical negligence practice, we work with bereaved families to investigate the care that was provided and identify whether failures occurred. While no legal claim can undo a tragic loss, establishing what happened can provide families with answers and help improve patient safety in the future.
We are committed, not only to pursuing justice for our clients, but also to highlighting wider issues within mental health services. We believe that every person experiencing a mental health crisis deserves to be listened to, treated with compassion and provided with appropriate support.
How we can help prevent suicide together
Suicide prevention starts with conversation. Creating an environment in which people feel able to speak openly about their mental health can help reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek support earlier.
Listening without judgement, checking in on friends, family members and colleagues, and encouraging those who are struggling to access professional support can make a meaningful difference. Equally important is ensuring that mental health services are adequately resourced and that people presenting in crisis receive timely and effective care.
World Suicide Prevention Day reminds us that every statistic represents a life lost. By talking openly about mental health, supporting those who are struggling and advocating for better care, we can all play a role in suicide prevention.
If you are struggling with your mental health or are concerned about someone else, support is available. In an emergency, contact 999 or attend your nearest Accident and Emergency Department. The Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by calling 116 123.
About Nimmisha and Andrew
Nimmisha Aslam is a partner in the personal injury and medical negligence team. She has particular experience in cases where mental health failings result in the death of a third party, and regularly represents families at inquests and in related civil claims.
Andrew Debrah is an associate in the personal injury and medical negligence team. Andrew also has experience assisting with claims involving negligent mental health care and supporting families through the inquest process following deaths in medical settings.