Suicide calls to helpline have increased more than three times

In all, 4,833 people asked for help - almost double the number in 2020 (2,506) and approaching five times as many in 2019 (1,056). Sixty-one per cent of calls were from women; two-thirds were from people aged between 36 and 65; the average duration of calls was 12 minutes, but up to 25 minutes where was a suicidal theme.

Twenty-seven per cent had mental health problems. Of others, nine per cent were suffering from loneliness and isolation, and eight per cent from depression.

The charity says that the increase in calls reflects the emotional and mental damage caused by Covid and the need for people to ask for help.

Seven of the 219 calls of a suicidal nature came from people who had just committed an act to end their life. The charity is therefore stressing the need to have means that help save lives.

The number is 971 46 11 12. It is available 24 hours a day every day.