Key points

Suicidal thoughts are present, but attempts are less frequent

• In Normandy, 5.6% of adults aged 18 to 79 report having had suicidal thoughts in the past twelve months, a figure comparable to the national average (5.2%). Reported suicide attempts over the same period affect 0.5% of the population, again in line with the French average. However, these figures mask more concerning realities among young people and women, particularly regarding visits to emergency rooms and hospitalizations for self-harm.

Increased pressure on emergency and hospitalization services

• Emergency departments in Normandy recorded 4,889 visits for self-harm in 2024, a slight increase from 2023 (+3%). Women accounted for two-thirds of these visits, with a marked overrepresentation of those aged 11–17 and 18–24.

• Hospitalizations for self-harm also increased by 4%, reaching a rate of 202 per 100,000 residents, well above the national average (142 per 100,000). Drug overdose remains the most common method (78% of cases), followed by the use of sharp objects (15%).

Slight Decline in Suicide Deaths

• The number of suicide deaths in Normandy decreased by 12% in 2023, with 521 cases recorded, representing a rate of 15 per 100,000 inhabitants. Men remain the most affected (75% of deaths), primarily by hanging.

Active prevention measures

• In response to this situation, prevention initiatives such as the national suicide prevention hotline 3114 and the VigilanS program play a key role. In 2024, the Normandy branch of 3114 handled over 11,000 calls, while VigilanS supported 3,570 people in the region, reducing the risk of repeat suicide attempts.