Men in the Dudley borough are three times more likely to die by suicide than women, according to new data presented to the Dudley Health and Wellbeing Board. The figures for 2022-24 show a suicide rate of 14.3 per 100,000 men, compared to 4.4 per 100,000 women.
Comparison with National Averages
While the local rates are concerning, Dudley's figures are below the national averages of 16.8 per 100,000 for men and 5.5 per 100,000 for women. The highest overall suicide rate in the borough is among middle-aged adults aged 45-64, at 13.8 per 100,000, which aligns with national trends.
Risk Factors Identified
The report, part of Dudley's suicide prevention plan, highlights several contributory factors. The borough has a higher-than-average rate of depression among adults: in 2024/25, Dudley GPs recorded 48,300 adults with depression, representing 17.2% of the population aged 18 and over.
Economic insecurity and debt are also significant. In 2024/25, Dudley had higher rates of people claiming out-of-work benefits and long-term unemployment compared to the national average. Domestic abuse is another risk factor, especially when combined with poverty, substance abuse, or mental health problems. Dudley's rate of criminal domestic abuse is 36 per 1,000 adults, compared to 27 per 1,000 across England.
Suicide Prevention Vision
The report from Dudley's Suicide Prevention Team states: "Our vision is for everyone in Dudley to come together to prevent loss of life to suicide and support those affected by it. Our goal is that through everyone's combined efforts, we can build a more resilient society that does not stigmatise mental illness and suicide, ensures that people who are in distress can be effectively identified and supported, and offers compassionate support to individuals and families bereaved by suicide."
If you are struggling, Samaritans are available 24/7, 365 days a year. Call them free on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org for more ways to speak to a Samaritan.
