MORE than 80 people in Argyll and Bute took their own lives over eight years, according to newly-published figures – but most never called the NHS for help.
Of the 83 people in the area who died as a result of suicide between 2011 and 2018, almost two out of three – 65.1 per cent – had no contact with NHS 24, the Scottish Ambulance Service or out-of-hours GP services in the year before their deaths.
The figure for Argyll and Bute is the highest 'no previous contact' rate for all of Scotland's 32 local authorities.
Almost a quarter contacted NHS24, while 25 per cent called 999 and were dealt with by the Scottish Ambulance Service.
Fewer than one in 10 reached out to the area's GP out-of-hours service.
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Some potentially spoke to more than one NHS service.
The study from ISD Scotland is the first of its kind to look at people's previous contact with one of the care services.
It found that neighbouring West Dunbartonshire had 102 suicides over the same period, with 60.8 per cent having no prior contact with the emergency services.
In Glasgow, where there were 722 suicides during the eight years covered by the study, 53.3 per cent did not reach out to the NHS for help.
There is no breakdown in the figures for the number of deaths by suicide in Helensburgh and Lomond,
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The study found the 5,982 people living in Scotland who died by suicide in the eight-year-period "were significantly more likely to have had contact with an unscheduled care service in the 12 months before death than members of the general population".
The report notes the highest levels of contact with unscheduled care services were associated with women over 75 who are living in the most economically-deprived areas.
Boys and men between the ages of five and 24 were linked to lower levels of contact with these services, as well as those living in more affluent or remote areas.
The report expresses concern people whose deaths are found to be "definite suicides" rather than "probably suicides" are also less likely to have been in contact with the ambulance service, NHS 24 or out-of-hours GP services.
It adds: "Health service planners will want to consider possible improvements to the organisation, reach and delivery of services targeted at groups at high risk of suicide, while healthcare providers will want to consider improvements to the identification, engagement and effective treatment of individuals in these groups."
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Mental health minister Clare Haughey cited the government's suicide prevention action plan, which is receiving funding of £3 million over five years and is chaired by former deputy chief constable Rose Fitzpatrick.
"Every suicide is a tragedy with a far-reaching impact on family, friends and communities," Ms Haughey said.
"Suicide prevention is a key priority for the Scottish Government and requires on-going analysis and research.
"Through our Suicide Prevention Action Plan - supported by £3 million funding over the course of the current Parliament - we are working to reduce the rate of suicide in Scotland and are ensuring that those affected by suicide have access to the right support.
"This report represents a significant contribution to the growing evidence base around suicide in Scotland which will inform current and future policy and activity."
A spokesperson for the Argyll and Bute health and social care partnership told the Advertiser: “Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership works closely with national and local health and social care services to prevent suicide and support those affected by suicide.
“Suicide is preventable. If anyone is feeling suicidal then please talk to someone.
“Talking to a family member, friend or colleague can bring huge relief.
“Talk to a helpful advisor – by phoning in complete confidence a helpline such as Samaritans or Breathing Space, and young people can call Childline.
“These services also provide online support which you can access by going to their websites.
“Talk to your doctor – if you are going through a longer period of feeling low or suicidal. If your GP practice is closed and it can’t wait, call NHS 24 on 111.
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“Talk to your mental health care team – where a psychiatrist, psychologist or community psychiatric nurse will be available.
“Contact emergency services. If you don’t think you can wait for help, call 999 right now.
“You are not alone and you can get help now.”
The Samaritans helpline is open 24 hours on 116 123.
Breathing Space (0800 838587) is open 6pm-2am Monday-Thursday and from 6pm on Friday to 6am on Monday.
Young people can call Childline on 0800 1111.
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