Suicide rates among middle-aged men hit highest level on record
Suicide rates highest ever among middle-aged men
New Office for National Statistics figures for England and Wales show men aged 50 to 54 are now at the greatest risk, with a rate of 28 deaths per 100,000. Almost a third of the 6,162 suicides registered in 2025 were among men aged 45 to 64, the highest rate since records began in 1981. Charities warn deaths remain stubbornly high and call for meaningful action and proper funding.
Every suicide is a devastating tragedy, and these figures are a stark reminder that many people are reaching crisis point without getting the help they need.