Suicide risk increase in spring

The Safe from Suicide team would like to make staff aware of the potential increase in risk of suicide during the spring period. This is often reported nationally and internationally and will not affect all patients, but consideration needs to be given to all service users/patients during this known increased risk period. The current social and economic pressures associated with increased food and fuel prices, along with continuing covid outbreaks may also increase risks this year.

This chart shows the number of suicides known to the Trust over the past six years.

The three months between May and July account for approximately one third (31%) of all suicides reported by the Trust. Last year we also observed an increase during April. The exact reason for this increase is unknown, but there are numerous theories as to why suicides increase during spring:

• People have reached the mid-point of the year and their life may still not feel as though it has improved
• April marks the end of the financial year with tax bills and financial reassessment
• The lighter and longer days increase serotonin which can make those vulnerable to depression and suicidal thoughts more active and agitated. This can make people more likely to act on their thoughts
• During spring there is often a cultural optimism and people get out more and socialise outdoors. This can increase sense of loneliness and isolation for those who feel they are in a different position. This is based on social comparison models.

What we suggest

• Please be more vigilant of those service users/patients who have previously expressed suicidal thoughts or had previous suicide attempts. Additionally, those who have engaged in self-harm or report an increase
• Ensure safety plans are offered to service users and they are aware of support available during potential crisis
• Consider increasing the frequency of visits to service users who have previous risk indicators as detailed above
• Stay alert to sudden improvement for those about to be discharged from hospital, as this can, on occasion, mean that they have made a decision to act on suicidal thoughts and therefore feel calmer and may even ask for discharge. Pay attention to this person’s history and if they feel better ask them what has changed to account for improvement. When no answer can be given, this can indicate that they intend to act on suicidal thoughts or plans
• Ensure colleagues and teams are aware of this increased risk, for those in our care or those who access partnership agencies and crisis cafes. Also, potential service users/patients who may be worthy of increased observations/monitoring
• Look for ways service users can feel less isolated and connected particularly around bank holidays and weekends. Consider events at Life Rooms or how they can be with family if supportive. Evidence states that people are less likely to take their own lives when with people.

For more information about our Trust Suicide Prevention Strategy and the work of the Safe from Suicide Team please visit their page on YourSpace (this information will be further developed over the coming months). If you have any further questions or want any additional information you can also contact the Safe from Suicide Team by emailing: safefromsuicide@merseycare.nhs.uk