In 2023, the number of suicide deaths in Flanders reached its lowest level in 25 years, with 887 fatalities, including 652 men and 235 women, according to the Flemish Expertise Centre for Suicide Prevention, VLESP.
The Flemish Government has achieved its goal of reducing suicides by 10% compared to 2020.
A significant decrease in suicides among men over 75 years old was observed, alongside other positive trends in different demographics.
However, the numbers are less promising for young women aged 15 to 29 in the north of the country, where suicides have increased since 2021. The concerning trend mirrors patterns in several other nations. The VLESP has called for more in-depth research to understand the rise.
The suicide rate among men aged 60 to 74 is also increasing in Flanders.
In Belgium, four people die by suicide each day, making it the leading cause of death among 15 to 45-year-olds, according to 2021 data from Sciensano.
Wallonia has the highest suicide mortality rate with 17.1 per 100,000 in 2021, compared to 13.6 in Flanders and 8.6 in Brussels. The national average stands at 14.2.
Anyone having suicidal thoughts can contact the Suicide Prevention Centre hotline at 0800/32/123. The service is anonymous, free and available 24/7. More information can be found here. The CHS Helpline can be reached at CHS Helpline number 0264/84/014. Un pass dans l'impasse can be reached at 0817/77/150. In Flanders, the helpline 1813 can be reached 24/7.
