Malta recorded one of the lowest suicide death rates in the European Union in 2023, according to figures published by Eurostat.The country registered a standardised death rate of six per 100,000 inhabitants for intentional self-harm, compared with the EU average of 10 per 100,000. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)Only Cyprus and Greece recorded lower rates, with four deaths per 100,000 inhabitants each, while Italy registered the same rate as Malta.At the other end of the rankings, Lithuania recorded the highest rate at 19 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants, followed by Slovenia and Hungary, both at approximately 16.Across the EU, men were 3.6 times more likely than women to die from intentional self-harm, with higher male death rates recorded in every member state.The difference was observed across age groups, with men under 65 recording a rate 3.5 times that of women in the same age group.Among people aged 65 and over, the male rate was four times that of women.The findings form part of Eurostat’s wider report on mental and behavioural disorders, which also examined deaths linked to dementia, alcohol use and drug dependence.While Malta’s suicide death rate was below the EU average, the figures also revealed a significant gender disparity, with the male rate eight times higher than the female rate.Eurostat noted that standardised death rates account for differences in population age structures, allowing comparisons between countries.The figures refer to deaths recorded in 2023 and do not measure the overall prevalence of mental health conditions.If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health or experiencing suicidal thoughts, support is availableMental 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.•