Suicide loss: why we exist?

Suicide loss in Norfolk

Around 90 lives are lost to suicide annually in Norfolk, with over 15,000 people impacted by this grief.

Norwich has consistently had the highest or second highest suicide rates among the Norfolk lower tier local authority areas.

Around three in four individuals who die by suicide are men.

The risk of suicide is highest in men in their 40s and over the age of 80.

Common issues experienced by those taking their own lives in Norfolk:

Poor physical health
Economic difficulties such as unemployment
Living alone and/or feeling lonely
Substance misuse
Adverse experiences such as domestic abuse in childhood or by an intimate partner
Relationship breakdown
Traumatic experiences such as the loss of a loved one
Contact with the Criminal Justice System

Nicole's story

Trigger Warning: content contains mentions of suicide.

Nicole shared with us how she lost her partner Martin to suicide and how support from Norfolk and Waveney Mind’s suicide bereavement service helped her feel less alone and begin to find hope again. She explains that connecting with others who understood her grief made a real difference in her healing journey.

If I had to describe Norfolk and Waveney Mind's suicide bereavement service to anyone, I would just say that it is one of the most beneficial things that I have ever come across in my whole entire life. That was the first time since losing Martin that I felt heard and that I felt like there was actual tangible support available. - Nicole

Whatever you need, we’re here.

Call: 0300 330 5488
Email: suicidebereavement@norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk
Web: norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk/suicide-bereavement

Emily shared with us how she lost her brother Tom to suicide in June 2023 and the impact this had on her life. She reflects on the close bond they shared, the challenges of navigating her own grief while supporting her family, and how Norfolk and Waveney Mind's Suicide Bereavement Service provided vital support in the weeks and months following Tom's death. Through one-to-one support and the Youth Suicide Support Group, Emily found a safe space to connect with others who understood her experience, helping her feel less alone and giving her support as she learned to navigate life after loss.

Emily's story

Trigger Warning: content contains mentions of suicide.

“I don't want my brother to be remembered for the way he died. I want him to be remembered for the person he was and the love he gave to everyone.” – Emily