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Scale of suicide risk in child sexual abuse survivors revealed
New data from Safeline’s National Telephone and Online Counselling Service reveals the scale of suicidal ideation among survivors of childhood sexual abuse, highlighting the essential need for trauma-informed support and specialist counselling.
Every year, World Suicide Prevention Day highlights the importance of understanding, compassion, and specialist support for those living with suicidal thoughts. At Safeline, we know that survivors of childhood sexual abuse are particularly at risk of experiencing suicidal ideation, often carrying deep trauma into adulthood without access to consistent specialist care.
Through Safeline’s National Telephone and Online Counselling Service, we have supported thousands of survivors across England and Wales for nearly ten years. This trauma-informed service is available to people of all genders aged 16+, whether self-referred or referred by an external agency. It was created to fill a crucial gap in support – especially for male survivors of sexual abuse, who often face additional barriers to reaching out for help. Data from our this service shows just how many survivors are living with overwhelming emotional pain before they access specialist support.
What the Data Tells Us
Between April 2022 and March 2025, survivors who came to Safeline for trauma-informed counselling shared the following during assessment:
- 53.3% of male survivors reported suicidal ideation.
- 47.3% of female survivors reported suicidal ideation.
- 37.4% of male survivors had previously attempted suicide.
- 40.5% of female survivors had previously attempted suicide.
These figures show the scale of the crisis. More than half of survivors who reach out for help are already experiencing suicidal thoughts, and around two in five have tried to take their own lives. Sexual abuse leaves lasting scars that can make day-to-day life unbearable. Survivors often describe using self-harm, alcohol, drugs, overwork, sex addiction or other risk-taking behaviours to cope with the trauma. While society may misinterpret these behaviours, at their core they are strategies to survive deep emotional pain.
Preventing Suicide
At Safeline, we know that suicidal thoughts are not a barrier to recovery. They are a natural response to trauma, and with the right support, healing is possible. With the right counselling and care, many survivors tell us they have been able to reduce suicidal thoughts, find stability, and start rebuilding their lives. We recognise that behind every statistic is a person who deserves safety, compassion, and hope. Survivors can and do heal.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts linked to sexual abuse, you are not alone. Safeline offers free, specialist, trauma-informed counselling through our telephone and online service, making support accessible wherever you are in England and Wales.
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