The vision within the Scottish Suicide Prevention Strategy “Creating Hope Together” is to reduce the number of suicide deaths in Scotland, whilst tackling the inequalities which contribute to suicide. The aim is for any child, young person or adult who has thoughts of taking their own life, or are affected by suicide, to get the help they need and feel a sense of hope. To achieve this, all sectors must come together in partnership, and we must support our communities so they can become safe, compassionate, inclusive, and free of stigma [1]. 

In Fife, we are supporting this national vision through Fife’s Children’s Services Partnership which is committed to promoting, supporting and safeguarding the wellbeing of all children and young people in Fife. At the heart of this work is our shared ambition as a Children’s Services Partnership: ‘Making Fife a place where every child and young person matters’. Further information can be found in the Children’s Services Plan 2023-2026. 

Definition 

The Scottish Government defines suicide as ‘death resulting from an intentional, self-inflicted act’ and that ‘Suicidal behaviour comprises both deaths by suicide and acts of self-harm that do not have a fatal outcome, but which have suicidal intent [2]. 

Suicide rates in young people 

Suicide among young people in Scotland: A report from the Scottish Suicide Information Database (ScotSID) [3] identified that between 2011 and 2020, probable suicides were the leading cause of death among 5–24-year-olds, accounting for a quarter of all deaths (25.7%) compared to accidental poisonings (14.1%) and land transport accidents (10.1%).  

There were significant differences in the proportion of all deaths attributed to probable suicide between the subgroups composing the 5-24 age group: 10.6% of deaths were attributed to suicide among 10-14-year-olds, 26.4% among 15-19-year-olds, and 31.1% among 20-24-year-olds.  

Hanging, strangulation and suffocation were the most commonly used method overall. The use of these methods were significantly more prevalent among 5-24-year-olds (63.9% of deaths) than among people aged 25 and over (45.9% of deaths). 

An infographic of the key findings from this report can be viewed here. 

National Records Scotland is responsible for producing statistics on Scotland’s population and produce the official annual suicide data release. The most recent data release can be accessed here. 

Who is most at risk? 

The Scottish Suicide Prevention Strategy “Creating Hope Together” states suicide in Scotland is a significant public health issue which affects all age groups and communities. Although no-one is immune from suicide, some individuals are at greater risk. Our understanding of the factors that make people more or less likely to be affected by suicide has evolved in recent years. The Academic Advisory Group for Creating Hope Together has undertaken research to develop a greater understanding of risk and protective factors for suicide. The high-level findings are [4]: 

  • Age and sex should be considered when other risk factors of suicide attempt are present, for example, self-harm history, impulsivity, and feeling of entrapment 
  • Specific risk factors include: poverty, employment status, a sense of defeat, hopelessness, and challenging relationships 
  • Perceptions of relationships should be considered, for example, feelings of burdening others 

It is often a combination of risk factors (including life events) which can lead to suicidal behaviour. Understanding these risk and protective factors helps us put inequalities at the heart of our approach – so we can reach and connect with people who are most at risk. 

Signs that someone you know may be at risk 

  • Previous deliberate self-harm or suicide attempt 
  • Talking about methods of suicide 
  • Problems out with their control 
  • Making final arrangements such as giving away prized possessions 
  • Hints that “I won’t be around” or “I won’t cause you any more trouble” 
  • Unresolved feelings of guilt following the loss of an important person or pet (including music or sports idols) 

Marked changes in usual behaviour patterns can also be a sign of risk 

  • Change in eating or sleeping habits 
  • Withdrawal from friends, family and usual interests 
  • Violent or rebellious behaviour, or running away 
  • Drinking to excess or using drugs 
  • Feelings of boredom, restlessness, self-hatred 
  • Failing to take care of personal appearance 
  • Becoming over-cheerful after a time of depression 
  • Physical signs, for example weight loss or gain or muscular aches and pains 

The Integrated Motivational-Volitional (IMV) Model (O’Connor 2011 and O’Connor & R.C, & Kirtley 2018) is a tripartite model that proposes that suicidal behaviour results from a complex interplay of factors, such as biology, psychology, environment, and culture. Further information can be found in the appendices section of this document. 

Common myths about suicide 

There are a number of commonly held myths about suicide which may stand in the way of providing assistance for those at risk of suicide: 

Myth: Young people who talk about suicide never attempt or complete suicide 

Talking about suicide can be a plea for help and it can be a sign in the progression towards a suicide attempt. Talking about suicide is one of the factors suggesting a risk of attempted suicide. 

Myth: People who threaten suicide are just seeking attention 

Do not dismiss a suicide threat as simply being an attention-seeking exercise. It is likely that the young person has tried to gain attention and this connection is needed.  

Myth: Talking about suicide encourages it 

Responsible talk about suicide does not encourage people to attempt suicide. Cambridge University has published research in support of this which can be viewed here. 

Myth: If a person attempts suicide and survives, they will never make a further attempt  

A suicide attempt is regarded as a probable indicator of further attempts.  

Myth: If someone has decided to kill themselves there is nothing anyone can do about it 

If appropriate help and support is offered to the person with suicidal thoughts and they are willing to accept this help their risk of suicide can be reduced 

Myth: People who are suicidal want to die  

The majority of people who feel suicidal do not actually want to die; they just want the situation they’re in or the way they’re feeling to stop. The distinction may seem small, but it is very important.  

Myth: Talking therapy doesn’t work for people who feel suicidal 

The research is very clear that accessing appropriate support, reduces suicide risk substantially and for a substantial amount of time. 

Myth: Suicide is caused by a single factor 

Suicide is complex and individuals who feel suicidal are often dealing with a range of issues which is causing them to feel crisis and despair. Often, feeling actively suicidal is temporary, even if someone has been feeling low, anxious or struggling to cope for a long period of time. Getting the right kind of support at the right time is so important. 

Samaritans and Papyrus provide further detail on common suicide myths and facts.