Abstract

Why would a young man with his whole life in front of him suddenly decide to kill himself? In the UK, several young men die at their own hand every day. Appropriate levels of response and a greater understanding of the issues are needed to help inform local suicide prevention strategies. 1. Suicide among men below the age of 35 has risen throughout the past 20 years and is now the most common cause of death in men and boys between the ages of 15 and 24 years. 2. An increased likelihood of suicide is linked to a number of specific life circumstances. For some, the link between suicidal behaviour and masculinity is felt to be the most significant risk factor of all. 3. Men are less likely to seek help when in emotional distress. 4. Agencies need to work together to develop effective local suicide prevention strategies that are more accessible to young men in distress and provide support to those at greatest risk.