A significant rise in the number of suicides has again underlined the need for urgent support for people struggling with their mental health.

According to NISRA the number of registered suicides in Derry and Strabane rose from 15 in 2015 to 22 last year, a 47% increase. Suicide remains the leading cause of death in males under 50. There is not a family in the North West unaffected. Indeed there were poignant scenes in the city as the River Foyle was blessed in honour of all ‘who died in its waters and for their grieving families’ as part of Sunday’s Eucharistic procession.

But last month at this time of evidently growing need, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said he was reviewing the deliverability of his Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 due to a funding shortfall against its estimated £1.2bn cost. Only £12.3m had been allocated to 14 actions by the end of last year. The focus now will be on developing the Mental Health Workforce and Regional Mental Health Crisis Service. The minister says he is sharpening ‘our focus to maximise impact within the resources available’ and ‘mental health remains a personal priority for me’.

It must be for us all. Over the past ten years, 175 people have died in Derry and Strabane, 175 grieving families. All of you will have loved, known and lost someone. Adequate funding for emotional support, prevention and crisis intervention services has to be found.

Lifeline: 08088088000; http://www.lifelinehelpline.info Samaritans: Freephone 116123 https://www.samaritans.org/