Nearly 90% of people calling Samaritans have suffered mental health challenges

Irish Examiner

20-05-2025

Almost nine out of 10 (88%) people who called Samaritans experienced mental health challenges, and were reaching out when other services were not available, the charity has said.
Releasing a report on its work last year, Samaritans said it continued to act as a lifeline for many struggling to cope as it answered 50 calls an hour in 2024.
Its executive director Sarah O'Toole said its vision is that fewer people die by suicide and its volunteers create a safe space for 'human connection that can often be life saving'. 'In the quiet moments of human struggle, a listening ear can be the difference between despair and hope,' she said.
It said it responds to 1,200 contacts daily, which come via calls, emails, face-to-face and prison support. Often people can raise multiple issues they are having in one conversation.
A survey of callers, conducted by University College Cork, found that over half (50.1%) of people called with a mental health concern while a similar proportion (48.4%) had problems with their family or in relationships.
Over one third of people (37.2%) rang with suicidal thoughts while similar numbers called due to a mental health crisis (37%) or loneliness (34.7%).
Sarah O'Toole: 'In the quiet moments of human struggle, a listening ear can be the difference between despair and hope.'
The report added: 'More than one-third (37.4%) have experienced abuse in their lives, while a similar number (33.1%) are living with chronic physical ailments that compound their emotional distress.'
Data from Samaritans showed that emotional support calls lasted an average of 28 minutes while it had 6,800 calls diverted to its service from five other helplines when they are closed.
The vast majority of those who reached out reported that the service provided a safe space for them, that they were genuinely listened to, and felt supported.
The report delves into personal testimonies of those who had reached out, including one caller who said they 'probably wouldn't be standing here today only for them'.
Another said: "It was literally like a hand came out and dragged me back… It was phenomenal, really phenomenal."
The research also identified a group of callers who sometimes required additional supports within the service. It said that callers discussing financial difficulties, bullying/harassment situations, or self-harm reported slightly lower satisfaction rates.
In terms of its recommendations going forward, it called on the Government to prioritise the creation of a National Loneliness Strategy along with mechanisms to assess its impact.
Furthermore, it called for big tech firms to ensure the wellbeing of content moderators through transparent reporting and comprehensive mental health support standards, including for contractors.
Minister for mental health Mary Butler paid tribute to Samaritans and its volunteers in response to this data. She added that the Department of Health is working with stakeholders including Samaritans to develop the next policy to reduce suicide in Ireland and she expects to bring it to Government for approval towards the end of this year.