Suicide Facts

Every day around two people die by suicide in Scotland.

In 2024 there were 704 Probable suicide deaths in Scotland, a decrease of 86 from 790 in 2023.

Research shows that up to 135 people can be affected in some way by every death by suicide.

Statistics

Reportable statistics about probable deaths by suicide are published annually by the National Records of Scotland. These national reports have shown that some groups in the population have higher rates of death by suicide than others.

• Just under three quarters of all suicides in Scotland are male.
• The rate of probable suicide mortality in the most deprived areas in Scotland was 2.5 times as high as the least deprived areas in Scotland.
• In 2024, age specific rates of probable suicide mortality were highest for those aged between 25 and 64. The rates for these age groups were over twice as high compared to those aged over 75 or under 25.
• Since 2000, the average age at death for probable suicide deaths has generally increased, from 41.9 years in 2000 to 47.5 years in 2024. The full report can be accessed here: Probable Suicides, 2024 - National Records of Scotland (NRS)

Tayside

Each area of Scotland has its own further breakdown of relevant information which they use to inform and plan local suicide prevention actions. The factors identified for Scotland are relevant in Tayside and the statistics show similar trends.

While some groups may be statistically at higher risk than others, suicide can affect all ages, genders, ethnicities and cultures. It is important to take a person-centred approach as suicide is complex, and each person is unique.

Talking about suicide in open, compassionate ways can create a community where those who are feeling suicidal can feel safe asking for help.