Clare’s suicide rate has remained largely static over recent years, despite a reduction in the number of suicides nationally.
The latest annual report from the National Office of Suicide Prevention shows that in each of the past three years, a suicide rate of around 13.5 suicides per 100,000 people in Clare.
The figure – calculated on a rolling three year basis – is the fifth highest of any area monitored, with a higher rate only recorded in Cavan, Monaghan, Waterford and Cork City.
The national suicide rate for the State is 8.2, and if that were the case here then the figures suggest there would be six fewer suicides in Clare each year.
Spanish Point-based President of the Irish College of Psychiatry Dr John Hillery says while it’s not an ideal situation, it’s important to ensure that services are there for those who need them:
Those who are in need of help can reach out to the Samaritans on 116 123 or Pieta House on 1800 247 247.
