Figures show rise in suicides in health trust area covering Mid Ulster

According to the latest figures, a total of 74 people took their lives in 2013 in the Northern Trust area, up from 61 in 2011.

It was the second highest rise in Northern Ireland after the Western Trust which saw a 30% spike in suicides over the same period.

In all other trust areas, the suicide rate actually decreased or remained the same. according to the figures released by the Department of Health.

Mid-Ulster Ulster Unionist MLA Sandra Overend has expressed her concern.

“Families and communities can be torn apart by suicide, and it is vital that people that find themselves in distress and despair have support networks in place to turn to.

“In Mid-Ulster I have worked with two local groups in particular that are doing vital work in this area, namely STEPS in Draperstown and Niamh Louise based outside Dungannon. Nationally, the Lifeline crisis response helpline service is on 0808 808 8000.”