Every year, Suicide Prevention Day encourages us to talk more openly about mental health, wellbeing, and the steps we can all take to prevent suicide. This year in Somerset, we are highlighting an issue that is too often overlooked: the strong link between domestic abuse and suicide.
The hidden connection
Research shows that people experiencing domestic abuse are at a much higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Abuse doesn’t just harm people physically – it can take a devastating toll on emotional and psychological wellbeing. Coercive control, isolation, and financial or emotional abuse can leave people feeling trapped, hopeless, and without a way forward.
Here in Somerset, just under 45% of deaths related to domestic abuse are due to suicide (Somerset Community Safety Partnership, 2023). Nationally, studies show that women who experience domestic abuse are three times more likely to attempt suicide than those who do not (Walby & Allen, 2004; Office for National Statistics, 2019). These are not just statistics – they are individuals, families, and loved ones whose lives have been changed forever. Recognising this link is vital if we are to prevent further loss of life.
Why awareness matters
Domestic abuse is often hidden behind closed doors. Many people experiencing abuse feel unable to tell friends, family, or colleagues what is happening to them. This can be because they minimise it, believe it must be normal, be afraid of what will happen if they seek help, or that there is no help available. This silence can make it harder for them to reach out for support.
That is why raising awareness is so important. Suicide Prevention Day gives us all the chance to:
Encourage conversations about mental health and domestic abuse.
- Learn to spot the signs that someone might be struggling.
- Share information about where help is available.
- Remind people that they are not alone and that support exists.
Domestic abuse can affect anyone, from any type of relationships, regardless of race, ethnic or religious group, class, disability, sexuality, lifestyle, nationality or age.
Support in Somerset
Somerset Council works closely with health partners, the police, voluntary organisations, and specialist support services to make sure help is available to anyone affected by domestic abuse. The Somerset Domestic Abuse Service provides advice, support, and safe options for those who need it – whether they are ready to leave a relationship or simply want to talk to someone about their situation.
If you are worried about someone you know, starting a gentle conversation can make a huge difference. Letting them know you care, listening without judgement, and signposting to professional support could even save a life.
Where to find help
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, including those having suicidal thoughts – reach out to Somerset Domestic Abuse Service, a confidential and experienced organisation that can provide the right support, including support for those having suicidal thoughts as a result of domestic abuse. Help is available, and you are not alone:
- Call: 0800 69 49 999 (8am–8pm, 7 days a week including bank holidays)
- Website: Somerset Domestic Abuse (including live chat)
- In an emergency dial 999. If speaking puts you at risk, stay silent, tap the phone, and press 55 when prompted.
- For those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired, register with emergencySMS.net to text 999 in an emergency. If you use British sign language (BSL) you can go to 999 BSL for a BSL interpreter.
- If you are feeling suicidal, you can call Mindline Somerset (24/7 mental health support): Call 0800 138 1692 or the Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free, confidential, 24/7)
Together we can make a difference
Suicide Prevention Day is a reminder that none of us are powerless in the face of these issues. By talking openly, raising awareness, and standing alongside people experiencing abuse, we can help to prevent despair from turning into tragedy.
Together, we can create a safer, kinder, and more supportive Somerset.
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