Malta recorded the largest gender disparity in suicide death rates across the European Union in 2023, with the standardised rate for men eight times higher than that for women.According to figures published by Eurostat, Malta had the highest male-to-female ratio among all 27 EU member states, significantly exceeding the EU-wide average of 3.6. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)The findings show that men were more likely than women to die from intentional self-harm in every EU country, although the size of the difference varied considerably.The Netherlands recorded the smallest disparity, with the male death rate 2.4 times that of women.Despite recording the EU’s largest gender gap, Malta remained among the countries with the lowest overall suicide death rates, registering six deaths per 100,000 inhabitants compared with the EU average of 10.Across the bloc, the difference between male and female suicide death rates was also evident across different age groups.Among people younger than 65, the male rate was 3.5 times higher than the female rate, while among those aged 65 and over, it was four times higher.Lithuania recorded the largest absolute difference between male and female suicide death rates, with 34 deaths per 100,000 men compared with seven per 100,000 women.Eurostat’s findings highlight how differences between male and female suicide mortality rates can vary substantially between countries, even when overall national rates are comparatively low.The statistics are based on deaths recorded in 2023 and use standardised rates to account for differences in population structures across EU countries.If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health or experiencing suicidal thoughts, support is available.Mental Health Support Services in Malta and GozoGeneral Crisis SupportMental Health HelplinePhone: 1579Available 24/7A 24-hour national telephone helpline, providing immediate and free emotional support, advice and practical guidance for anyone in need.Richmond Foundation 24/7 HelplinePhone: 1770Available 24/7Website: richmond.org.mtFree and confidential mental health support for anyone in emotional distress or crisis.Mental Health Crisis Team (Crisis Resolution Malta)Phone: 9933 996624/7 mobile crisis response team offering immediate in-person or phone support for people experiencing severe mental distress.112 – Emergency ServicesFor urgent, life-threatening situations or when someone is at immediate risk of harm.Emotional Support and Suicide PreventionSupportline 179 (Foundation for Social Welfare Services)Phone: 179Available 24/7Offers emotional support, guidance, and referral services for anyone facing personal, emotional, or family-related difficulties.Kellimni.comAnonymous online chat platformAvailable 24/7Website: kellimni.comConfidential chat, email, and web-based support for youth and adults seeking someone to talk to.Kriżi App (by Crisis Resolution Malta)Available on Android and iOSA self-help app offering mood tracking, anonymous chat, coping tools, and an emergency contact button that connects directly to professionals. Designed for individuals needing immediate and private support.Victim Support MaltaPhone: 21228333Website: victimsupport.org.mtProvides emotional, psychological, and legal assistance to victims of trauma.Youth-Focused SupportAġenzija Żgħażagħ – Youth Support ServicesPhone: 2258 6700Website: agenzijazghazagh.gov.mtSupport and mentoring programmes for young people aged 13 to 30.ANKRA Youth (by Richmond Foundation)Website: ankrayouth.orgMental health support for youth and young adults. Includes peer support, information resources, and access to the 1770 helpline and OLLI Chat.Live Chat and Online SupportOLLI Chat (by Richmond Foundation)Website: olli.chatAvailable Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, and Saturday from 8am to 4pmA free and confidential live chat service with trained staff offering emotional and mental health support. Ideal for those who prefer typing over talking.Clinical Mental Health ServicesMount Carmel Hospital – Outpatient ClinicPhone: 2141 5183Access via GP referral or A&EProvides psychiatric assessments, therapy, and medication for patients with ongoing mental health needs.OASI Foundation (Gozo)Phone: 2156 3333Available Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, and Saturday from 8am to 12pmWebsite: oasi.org.mtProvides support for addiction, mental health, and wellbeing services in Gozo.You are not alone. These services exist to listen, support, and guide – not judge. Reaching out might not solve everything overnight, but it could be the first step toward meaningful change.•