September 10, 2026 - 159 views
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day – a day to remember those who have lost their lives, support those who may be struggling and remind people across North Wales that they do not have to face difficult times alone.
Suicide remains a serious public health issue in Wales, and the latest figures underline the importance of continued support in our communities.
Public Health Wales recorded 440 suspected suicide deaths among Welsh residents in the year to March 2025. In North Wales, the rate was 17.3 deaths per 100,000 people, compared with 16.8 across Wales as a whole.
The figures also show that men continue to be disproportionately affected, accounting for 77 per cent of suspected suicide deaths across Wales during the period. Public Health Wales says the rate is also considerably higher in some of the most deprived communities.
But behind every statistic is a person, a family, a group of friends and a community left dealing with the consequences.
Here in North Wales, organisations including Conwy Mind are working locally to make it easier for people to talk about how they are feeling and get support before things reach crisis point.
Conwy Mind describes itself as a local charity working to improve community wellbeing and prevent mental health emergencies across Conwy County. Its services include counselling, one-to-one support, Mental Health MOTs, support calls and community activities designed to tackle issues including loneliness and isolation.
Its support calls provide people with a regular opportunity to talk to someone about difficulties, anxiety, stress, low mood, grief or loneliness, with the aim of helping people find practical ways forward.
That community element can be particularly important in a region where people may be dealing with isolation, financial pressures, bereavement, relationship difficulties, unemployment or simply the feeling that they have nowhere to turn.
And sometimes the first step does not have to be a formal appointment. It can be as simple as talking to a friend, neighbour, colleague or family member and asking how they really are.
National organisations also provide support which is available to people across North Wales.
The Samaritans can be contacted free of charge at any time on 116 123. Trained volunteers are there to listen without judgement and give people the space to talk about whatever is troubling them. A Welsh-language service is also available on 0808 164 0123.
Conwy Mind also lists other sources of help, including the NHS, CALL Mental Health Helpline, Shout and specialist services for young people and people in crisis.
For anyone worried about someone else, there is no need to have all the answers. Listening, staying in contact and encouraging someone to seek help can make a difference.
And for anyone who is struggling themselves, asking for help is not a sign of weakness.
World Suicide Prevention Day is an opportunity to have those conversations – not just today, but throughout the year – and to make sure people across our communities know that support is available.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to the nearest emergency department.
For someone who needs someone to talk to, the Samaritans can be contacted free, 24 hours a day, on 116 123. Conwy Mind can also be contacted on 01492 879907.
