Suicide Rates Surge Among Young People in Europe, New Study Reveals

A recent study from the Dublin-based think tank Eurofound identifies suicide as the leading cause of death among young people in Europe. The report indicates a troubling rise in suicide rates following a decline prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. This alarming trend highlights significant mental health challenges across the continent, particularly in Ireland.

In 2021, suicide accounted for 18.9% of deaths among individuals aged 15 to 29, surpassing traffic collisions, which accounted for 16.5% of deaths in the same age group. The report reveals that poor mental health contributed to a staggering 11.1 million years of life lost or lived with disability that year. Notably, men are over three times more likely to die by suicide than women, despite women being more inclined to report mental health issues and seek help.

The report also points to vulnerable groups, including young women under 20 and men over 85, who have experienced recent increases in suicide rates.

Insights from Ireland

While the report acknowledges some progress in mental health services in Ireland, significant challenges remain. Inpatient admissions for depressive and anxiety disorders have returned to pre-pandemic levels, and the mental health workforce has increased by 20% over the past five years. Nonetheless, economic pressures affect the mental health of 32% of the population, while 26% report negative impacts from the ongoing housing crisis.

Financial concerns are linked to higher rates of depression, particularly among the unemployed, with 57% of adults expressing financial worries. Additionally, social media has been flagged as a contributor to mental distress, with 44% of Irish adults indicating that it exacerbates their stress and anxiety. A quarter of young girls reported negative effects on their mental health due to social media.

Despite the availability of free counselling in some regions, barriers to accessing mental health services persist. In 2023, nearly 40% of individuals delayed seeking help due to stigma or fear of judgment, and a third reported uncertainty about where to turn for assistance. Furthermore, shortages and long waiting times, especially for child and adolescent services, complicate access to care. In rural areas, 17% of individuals reported a lack of local services to meet their needs.

Broader European Context

The Eurofound report outlines several factors affecting mental health across Europe, including the transition to digital work environments and the ongoing impacts of climate change. Issues such as social insecurity, economic inequality, and concerns related to the cost-of-living crisis have exacerbated mental health challenges. Those in lower socioeconomic groups, as well as individuals working in healthcare and social services, are particularly vulnerable.

While many EU countries offer free or low-cost mental health care, nearly half of those experiencing mental health problems rate the quality of available services below five out of ten. Key barriers to accessing mental health support include stigma, discrimination, and capacity limitations, alongside gender-specific issues that disproportionately affect men.

As Europe grapples with these pressing mental health concerns, the Eurofound report emphasizes the need for improved living and working conditions and enhanced social inclusion to promote better mental health outcomes.

For those affected by mental health issues, support is available through various helplines, including the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre at 1800 77 8888, Samaritans at 116 123, and Pieta at 1800 247 247.