This Suicide Prevention Day, 10 September, Somerset Council is urging the community to recognise the critical link between domestic abuse and suicide, and to reach out to those who may be struggling in silence.
Here in Somerset, just under 45% of deaths related to domestic abuse are due to suicide. Nationally, studies show that women who experience domestic abuse are 3 times more likely to attempt suicide than those who do not (Walby and 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.
The impact of sustained abuse – whether emotional, psychological, physical, sexual, or economical – can leave people feeling isolated, hopeless, and without a way out.
This may be used to control another person by using their emotions to criticise, embarrass, shame, blame or otherwise manipulate them. Although domestic abuse disproportionately affects women, it is important to recognise that anyone can be a victim or perpetrator of abuse. Exposure to domestic abuse can also have a significant impact on children’s mental health.
Councillor Sarah Wakefield, Lead Member for Adults Services, Housing and Homelessness at Somerset Council said:
Domestic abuse does not just leave physical scars – it can take an immense toll on mental health. For some, the emotional pain and fear can become overwhelming, and suicidal thoughts may feel like the only escape.
On Suicide Prevention Day, we want people to know that help is out there, they are not alone, and there is a future beyond abuse.
Somerset Domestic Abuse Service offers free, confidential support to children and adults of any age affected by domestic abuse. The service works closely with mental health organisations to ensure people can access the help they need, from crisis support to long-term recovery.
This Suicide Prevention Day, Somerset Domestic Abuse Service is sharing three key messages:
- Domestic abuse can be linked to suicide – Understanding this connection can help save lives.
- You are not alone – Support is available for both domestic abuse and suicidal thoughts.
- Reach out early – Speaking to someone can be the first step to safety and recovery.
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. A range of help is available, and you are not alone:
- Call: 0800 69 49 999 (8am to 8pm, 7 days a week including bank holidays)
- Website: Somerset Domestic Abuse (including live chat)
- Email: domesticabuseservice@somerset.gov.uk
- In an emergency dial 999. If speaking puts you at risk, stay silent, tap the phone, and dial 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 on 0800 138 1692, 24 hours, 7 days a week.
