There were 6,069 suicides in the UK last year, a 25-year high

The number of suicides in England and Wales has reached a 25-year high, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Figures released Thursday by the Office for National Statistics show 6,069 people killed themselves in England and Wales last year, or 11.4 per 100,000 people, compared with 10.7 per 100,000 in 2022, Xinhua reported.

While men are more likely to kill themselves than women, the female suicide rate rose to 5.7 deaths per 100,000 people last year, the highest level since 1994, the data show. The average age is 45 to 49 years for men and 50 to 54 years for women.

Suicide rates in the North West and North East of England are reported to be double those in London.

Glasgow Caledonian University sociologist David Baker said the cost-of-living crisis is contributing to the rise in suicide rates.

"The fundamental problems remain: the high cost of living, the difficulty of finding a job, and finding a job is not just any job, but something that gives you a sense of pride and purpose... This is partly because men tend to shy away from discussing health issues, especially mental health. The problem is widespread, but we haven't really solved it yet."

Baker added that he was not surprised that suicide rates were highest in the north of England, which is among traditionally poorer and working-class areas. "These areas don't have much support from the government in terms of social services and support networks."

Baker stressed the need for political action to tackle suicide. "Waiting times for mental health services are long and it can take months to get help. But providing immediate support and comfort to people in crisis can make a big difference."