Almost four Belgians die by suicide per day, with suicide being the leading cause of death of amongst 15 to 45-year-olds, according to Sciensano's latest figures from 2021.
On the eve of World Suicide Prevention Day (10 September), suicide prevention organisations such as Un pass dans l'impasse and the Suicide Prevention Centre are highlighting the ongoing issue.
Men are more affected by suicide than women in Belgium, according to Un pass dans l'impasse; in 2021, 1,174 men died by suicide, compared to 467 women.
"These numbers are just the tip of the iceberg. Suicide attempts are believed to be 15 to 20 times higher than actual suicides. Two thirds of these attempts involve women," warned Un pass dans l'impasse representative, Thomas Thirion.
Since 2019, suicide has superseded cancer, road accidents and cardiovascular diseases to become the leading cause of death among 15 to 45-year-olds. This alarming trend among young people was confirmed by the Suicide Prevention Centre: it noted a 15% rise in young people calling its free, anonymous helpline (0800/32/123) since 2020.
Discussing suffering
The reasons behind suicides are varied and complex. Young people have expressed their fear of discussing their suffering with those close to them, worried it might be trivialised or fearing becoming a "burden" to loved ones. However, the Suicide Prevention Centre encourages dialogue and emphasises that unexpressed or unheard suffering can make matters worse.
Moreover, consultations with psychologists can facilitate discussions about significant mental health issues. Such consultations have surged by 48% in the last five years at Un pass dans l'impasse. This increase is attributed to the rise of health, financial and climate crises over the past four years, causing a significant increase in mental distress. One quarter of all consultations involved teenagers and young adults contemplating suicide.
In response to these findings, Un pass dans l'impasse launched an appeal for donations via their website to support their preventative work. There has also been a significant advertising campaign across hospitals, outpatient clinics, medical centres, health centres, pharmacies and general practice surgeries.
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. Un pass dans l'impasse can be reached at 0817/77/150. In Flanders, the helpline 1813 can be reached 24/7.
