In 2023, the Ministry of Health in Luxembourg recorded 48 deaths due to self-inflicted injuries, resulting in a suicide mortality rate of 6.3 per 100,000 inhabitants. The European Union average is 10.2 per 100,000 inhabitants.
The data also reveals significant gender disparities: of the 48 suicides recorded in Luxembourg last year, 36 were men and 12 were women. Additionally, the National Suicide Prevention Plan and its evaluation indicate that young people and the elderly are particularly vulnerable populations.
In 2024, approximately 14,699 individuals received psychotherapeutic treatment covered by health insurance, with women (around 9,700) outnumbering men (approximately 4,800).
Minister of Health and Social Security Martine Deprez emphasised the government’s commitment to expanding suicide prevention training programmes. Targeted initiatives have been developed for groups such as teachers, teenagers, and paramedics. To date, around 6,900 paramedics have completed mental health training.
To enhance early detection, the Scientific Health Council issued a recommendation four years ago reminding general practitioners to utilise available tools for assessing psychosocial risks and addictive behaviours. Such assessments can serve as critical indicators of dissatisfaction or potential suicidal tendencies.
These details were shared by Minister Deprez in response to a parliamentary question from Marc Goergen of the Pirate Party.
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can reach out to SOS Détresse, which offers confidential support via phone at 45 45 45. English-speaking support is available every Wednesday and Saturday. Volunteers provide assistance in Luxembourgish, German, and French daily from 11am to 11pm, extending hours until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays. You can also visit the organisation’s website, www.454545.lu, to connect via email or chat.
Mental health in Luxembourg: SOS Détresse attributes 50% drop in online counselling to ChatGPT
